How Long After Car Accident Can You Claim Injury?
Posted September 28th, 2020 by Anthony Carbone.
Categories: Auto Accidents.
It is normal to feel overwhelmed after a car accident. It might take time for you to understand the scope of the damage you suffered. In some cases, your injuries might not even present for weeks after the crash. When they do, you could require extensive treatment with no end in sight.
With all this going on, it could be tempting to put off filing an injury claim or lawsuit. You might wish to postpone the decision until you are feeling more up to it. However, this raises the question, how long after car accident can you claim injury?
In this article, we review the timelines and deadlines surrounding car accident claims in New Jersey. We also explore when you should contact a Bayonne Car Accident Attorney about an accident.
New Jersey Statute of Limitations
Statutes of limitations are time limits applicable to a lawsuit. They are usually applied by a state government to encourage plaintiffs to file their claims on time. In New Jersey, personal injury lawsuits are subject to a 2-year statute of limitations. This means that you have two years after the date of an accident to take legal action against the at-fault driver.
It also means that after this period expires, you forfeit your right to pursue damages. Consequently, it is advisable to talk to an attorney as soon as possible after an accident.
Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations
As with every rule, there are some exceptions to the New Jersey statute of limitations. In some cases, the deadline to file a claim can be extended if you were a minor at the time of the injury. The timeline can begin once you turn 18. However, this exception is more common for dog bites than car accidents.
Additionally, there might also be an extension for people who had a mental disability at the time of the injury but got better later.
Generally, these extensions can be difficult to understand and might not always apply. The best course of action is to contact or have someone you trust contact an attorney immediately.
Maximum Medical Improvement
Car accident injuries can take a while to manifest. When they do, it might take even longer to determine the extent of treatment you might require. You might not have an exact idea of how much compensation is owed to you for your injuries.
Consequently, some car accident victims might decide to wait until they reach maximum medical improvement before seeking compensation. This is a point where your situation will not get better even with further treatment.
However, there is nothing wrong with filing a claim before reaching maximum medical improvement. An experienced attorney can work with health professionals to project your full medical costs.
Speak to a Bayonne Car Accident Attorney
Filing a personal injury claim could seem daunting, especially when you are in pain. However, the process is crucial to your recovery. Getting compensated for your losses can help you cover your medical bills and repair any damaged property. It could also help keep you financially afloat.
If you have been injured in a car accident, contact or have someone you trust contact the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone. Attorney Carbone, an expert Bayonne Car Accident Attorney will handle your case as you focus on your recovery.
