Understanding Florida’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury
If you’ve been injured in an accident, knowing the statute of limitations is critical to protecting your rights. The statute of limitations sets a legal deadline for filing a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation, no matter how strong your case may be. Kevin L. Sullivan II can help ensure your claim is filed on time, giving you the best chance at securing the compensation you deserve.
What Is the Statute of Limitations?
The statute of limitations is a law that dictates how long you have to file a lawsuit after an injury. In Florida, the deadlines for personal injury claims vary depending on the type of case.
General Personal Injury Claims
As of March 24, 2023, Florida law allows two years from the date of the injury to file most personal injury claims, such as:
- Car accidents.
- Trucking accidents.
- Slip and fall cases.
This new law shortened the deadline from the previous four-year limit, so it’s essential to act quickly.
Other Common Deadlines:
- Medical Malpractice Claims: You have two years from the date the malpractice occurred or was discovered.
- Wrongful Death Claims: The deadline is two years from the date of death.
- Claims Against Government Entities: If you’re suing a government agency, you must provide notice within six months and follow specific procedural rules.
Why the Deadline Matters
You might think, “Two years seems like plenty of time.” However, the clock starts ticking immediately after the injury, and delays can weaken your case. Here’s why meeting the deadline is crucial:
- Preservation of Evidence: Evidence such as medical records, accident scene photos, and witness testimony can fade or be lost over time. Acting quickly helps preserve critical evidence.
- Insurance Company Tactics: Insurers often use delay tactics to stall negotiations, hoping you’ll miss the filing deadline.
- Legal Complexity: Building a strong case takes time. Filing before the statute of limitations ensures your attorney has ample time to investigate, gather evidence, and prepare.
This post was written by a professional at Kevin L. Sullivan II. Attorney Kevin L. Sullivan II is your personal injury attorney Sun City Center FL, and the best personal injury attorney near you for LeavenLaw. Kevin is proud to serve Florida accident victims that have been injured in auto accidents, motorcycle accident, slip and falls or have suffered any other type of injury caused by negligence. Kevin offers a FREE no-obligation consultation to discuss your claim. There are NO upfront fees or costs and if he does not collect for you, you do not owe him anything.
