The statute of limitations is the most important deadline for your car accident lawsuit. In New Jersey, it typically expires two years from the date of the collision. However, there are some important exceptions to that rule. If you have been injured in an accident, it’s best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible, as any delay could be detrimental to the success of your injury case. A car accident attorney from Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P. C. could ensure you pursue your case before the statute expires. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
What does the statute of limitations for an NJ car accident mean for my case
You must comply with the statute of limitations to file a successful claim. It can represent one of the major pitfalls in your case, and filing after the deadline expires could mean the dismissal of your lawsuit with prejudice. If this happens, you lose the opportunity to seek damages for your injury. Violating the statute can impact your case beyond your ability to file a lawsuit. You will also lose the ability to negotiate a settlement with the defendant if the statute has expired. While there are always exceptions, it’s best to check with your attorney.
What are New Jersey’s filing deadlines?
In New Jersey, most injury victims have a two-year deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. However, this window of time begins to expire on the day of the car accident. The same two-year deadline applies to wrongful death lawsuits stemming from car accidents.
How soon should I start filing?
You should never delay contacting a lawyer for your personal injury case. Two years might seem like enough time to pursue a claim, but successfully building a negligence case with the required evidence requires hard work and time. The sooner you allow our firm to take on your case, the less likely you will miss important deadlines.
What if the filing deadline has passed?
In most cases, filing a lawsuit after the expiration of the statute of limitations will be dismissed immediately. However, as noted, some exceptions extend the time you have to file. Specifically, an injury victim under 18 typically has additional time to pursue their lawsuit. Our team of personal injury lawyers can advise you whether you have a viable exception to the statute of limitations.
Contact us for a free consultation
The attorneys of Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman are ready to advocate for you. We understand the importance of deadlines and are prepared to help you file your case on time. We serve clientele in Rockland County, Bergen County, and elsewhere in New Jersey and New York. Call for a free consultation; there is no obligation to hire us afterward. And since we work on a contingency fee basis, you will not pay attorney’s fees unless we win compensation for your injuries. We look forward to hearing from you.