What is a statute of limitations?

A statute of limitations is a law that states a specific amount of time in which a person can file a legal claim following an accident. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. This means that individuals must file their claim within two years of the date of the accident, or they will be unable to pursue compensation for their injuries. Statutes of limitations exist for several reasons. One reason is to ensure that evidence is as fresh as possible. If a claim is filed too long after an accident occurs, evidence can become stale or even lost completely. Without fresh, valid evidence, a case may be impossible to prove in court. Additionally, statutes of limitations serve as a way to protect parties from facing legal claims long after an accident takes place. If a person is held legally responsible for an accident many years after the incident, the responsible party may no longer have the resources to pay for damages or even remember the specific details of the case. Overall, the statute of limitations is an important law that must be followed when filing a personal injury claim. Failing to meet the statute of limitations could mean an individual is unable to pursue compensation for their injuries. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident.

Related FAQs

What is the difference between general damages and special damages?
What should I do if I am contacted by the other party’s insurance company?
What is vicarious liability?
What is a medical lien?
What is the difference between compensatory and monetary damages?
What should I do if I am offered a settlement?
What is a third-party claim?
What is subrogation?
How long does it take to settle a personal injury case?
What should I look for when selecting a personal injury lawyer?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding the Basics of Accident Law: An Overview for Victims - July 31, 2023
What to Look for in an Accident Lawyer: Important Qualities to Consider - August 7, 2023
The Different Types of Accidents and How to Handle Them - August 14, 2023
Litigation Strategy: Key Considerations for Personal Injury Cases - August 21, 2023
The Role of Negligence in Personal Injury Cases - August 28, 2023