Is there a limit to the amount of time I can take to file a maritime injury claim?
Yes, there is a time limit for filing a maritime injury claim in Pennsylvania. Generally speaking, an injured seaman has three years under Pennsylvania law to bring a lawsuit against the owner of the vessel. This time period begins to run at the time of the accident or injury, or when the injured person knew or had reason to know of the injury or illness. In addition, an injured seaman may be barred from filing a claim if too much time has passed since the injury or illness. This is because the shipowner may be prejudiced by the delay if they have lost evidence or witnesses over time. It is important to note that each case is unique, and the amount of time available to file the claim may depend on the specific circumstances. There are some exceptions to the normal three-year filing period. For example, an injured seaman may be able to recover compensation for an illness that occurred many years after the injury or exposure took place, as long as certain conditions are met. In addition, special rules may apply for seamen who are under 21 years of age at the time of the accident. In short, there is a limit to the amount of time an injured seaman may have to file a maritime injury claim in Pennsylvania. While a seaman typically has three years to bring a lawsuit, there are exceptions depending on the circumstances. It is important to consult with an experienced maritime injury lawyer so that your rights can be protected.
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