Are the Statutes of Limitations in Your Case Up?
Slip and fall accidents may seem like minor mishaps at first glance, but they can lead to serious injuries that disrupt your life. From the medical bills to the lost wages, the effects of an accident are far-reaching. If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall incident, knowing your rights is critical—especially when it comes to filing a personal injury lawsuit. One vital factor to understand is the statute of limitations.
Our slip-and-fall accident attorneys will break down the statute of limitations for slip-and-fall lawsuits in Pennsylvania and help you understand what steps to take if the deadline is approaching.
Statute of Limitations in Pennsylvania
If your slip and fall incident occurred in Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. This time limit is governed by Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations. Missing this deadline means your case will likely be dismissed, leaving you unable to recover compensation, even if you have a valid claim.
Why Two Years?
The two-year statute of limitations applies to most personal injury cases in Pennsylvania, including slip and fall accidents. This timeline is in place to ensure evidence remains fresh and witnesses are available, so the judicial process is fair and efficient.
When Does the Clock Start?
The clock begins ticking on the day of your injury. For example, if you slipped and fell on April 1, 2023, you would have until April 1, 2025, to file your lawsuit.
Why You Should Act Quickly
Consulting with one of our personal injury lawyers as soon as possible can significantly impact your case. Waiting too long could make it challenging to gather evidence, locate witnesses, and file your lawsuit within the specified timeframe.
Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations
While the two-year timeframe covers most cases, there are exceptions to the rule. If the injured party was a minor at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations typically begins to run when they turn 18 years old. For instance, if a 16-year-old is hurt in a slip and fall accident, they have until their 20th birthday to file a lawsuit.
What to Do if the Statute of Limitations Is Approaching
If you’re nearing the two-year deadline for a slip and fall lawsuit, acting swiftly is essential. Here’s what you should do to protect your rights.
1. Seek Legal Counsel
Contact our slip and fall attorney immediately. We’ll assess your case and guide you through the legal process to ensure your claim is filed in time.
2. Gather Evidence
Collect evidence related to your case, including photos of the accident scene, medical records, witness statements, and any other documentation that supports your claim.
3. Don’t Delay
Avoid waiting until the last minute. Filing a lawsuit involves legal complexities best handled early to ensure everything is in order by the deadline.
Take Action Today With Help From Lenahan & Dempsey
If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident, don’t wait until it’s too late. Working with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve.
Contact our legal team today for a free consultation and get the guidance you need to move forward with confidence.
*Details on Settlements & Verdicts are found at LenahanDempsey.com. All law firms are required to note that because the facts of each case are different, past performance is not a promise of a future outcome.
