What Are Statute of Limitations Laws?

Statute of limitations laws set a strict time limit on your ability to file a legal claim after an accident or injury. These laws are designed to encourage timely resolution of cases and to ensure that evidence and witness testimony are still fresh. For victims in civil cases, such as car accidents or other personal injury claims, these deadlines are critical. If you’ve been injured in Connecticut, it’s essential to act quickly and seek guidance from a professional personal injury lawyer. Failing to meet the deadline could mean losing your right to pursue justice and compensation.

Statute of Limitations in Connecticut

In Connecticut, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases varies depending on the type of claim:

• Personal Injury Claims: You generally have two years from the date of the accident or injury to file your claim.
• Claims Involving Property Damage: The statute of limitations for property damage claims is also two years.
• Claims Against the Government: If your claim involves a state or local government entity, you must file a notice of claim within 90 days of the incident, and the actual lawsuit must be filed within two years.

These deadlines are strict and typically start counting from the date of the incident. Missing the deadline, in most cases, will bar you from seeking compensation, regardless of the strength of your case.

Can the Statute of Limitations Be Extended?

While the statute of limitations is rigid, there are certain rare circumstances where it may be extended. These exceptions include:

• Incapacitation: If the victim was physically or mentally incapacitated (e.g., in a coma) and unable to file a claim, the statute of limitations may begin from the time they regain their capacity.
• Minors: If the victim is under 18 at the time of the injury, the statute of limitations typically begins when they turn 18.
• Late Discovery: In cases where the injury or damage is not immediately apparent (e.g., medical malpractice or defective products), the statute of limitations may start from the date the injury was discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.

These exceptions are rare and require strong evidence to convince the court to allow a late filing. Therefore, it’s always advisable to file your claim as soon as possible to avoid complications.

Why Act Quickly?

Delaying your claim can have serious consequences. Evidence can be lost, witnesses may forget key details, and your case may lose strength over time. Additionally, if you miss the statute of limitations deadline, your case will likely be dismissed, and you will lose your right to pursue compensation—no matter how valid your claim may be.

By acting quickly, you not only preserve your legal rights but also increase your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer like those at Bert McDowell Injury Law can make all the difference in navigating the complexities of your case.

Contact Bert McDowell Injury Law Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, workplace incident, or any other type of accident caused by negligence, don’t wait to seek legal help. Bert McDowell Injury Law is here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 475-231-3274 to schedule your free consultation. You can also fill out our contact form to get started.

We take pride in serving clients across Connecticut and ensuring that their voices are heard in both settlement negotiations and in the courtroom. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you.