The Bucks County Area’s Trusted Personal Injury Attorney: We Handle Car Accidents, Slip & Falls, & More 

Have you been injured in an accident or suffered damages due to someone else’s negligence in Pennsylvania? If you plan on pursuing a personal injury claim, you only have a certain amount of time to do so – and that’s because of the “statute of limitations.” At Gregg Durlofsky Law Offices, we want to educate our clients to ensure they are fully informed about their rights and the legal constraints for their cases. Here’s what you need to know about how the statute of limitations works in Pennsylvania.

What is the Statute of Limitations?

The statute of limitations is a law that sets the maximum time after an event within which legal proceedings may be initiated. When the period specified under a statute of limitations passes, the injured party no longer has the right to file a lawsuit to seek damages. The rationale behind this law is to encourage the resolution of claims while the evidence is fresh and to provide certainty for both parties. However, there’s a downside – many people don’t know that it exists, and therefore they wait too long to file a claim. By understanding the concept of the statute of limitations, you can take action and boost your claim. 

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the injury. This includes cases involving:

• Car accidents
• Slip and fall incidents
• Medical malpractice
• Defamation
• Assault and battery

If you have suffered an injury, it’s imperative to start the legal process promptly to ensure that your rights are protected. Failing to take action within the two-year window typically results in the loss of your right to claim compensation.

Exceptions to the Rule

There are exceptions where the statute of limitations may be extended. These exceptions include:

• Discovery Rule: If the injury was not immediately discovered, Pennsylvania law may allow the statute of limitations to begin at the time the injury is discovered, or reasonably should have been discovered. However, you must be able to prove that there was no way you could have known about the injury in order for this rule to apply. 
• Minors: If the injured party is a minor, the statute does not begin to run until they reach the age of 18. However, medical malpractice claims must be filed before the minor turns 20.

Why Timeliness Matters

Adhering to the statute of limitations is critical. If you file a lawsuit after the deadline has passed, the court is likely to dismiss your case, regardless of its merits. This can result in the loss of your right to recover any damages for your injuries or losses. If you have been injured, make sure to contact our personal injury attorneys right away. 

How Our Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help

At Gregg Durlofsky Law Offices, we understand how overwhelming and confusing the legal process can be, especially when dealing with the pain of an injury or the loss of a loved one. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through each step, ensuring that all legal actions are timely and effectively handled to protect your rights and interests.

Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys Today – We Serve Bucks County & the Surrounding Areas

If you believe you have a claim, it’s important to consult with a legal professional immediately. Our team will review your situation, advise you on the applicable statute of limitations, and help you understand the best course of action to take. Don’t wait – call today to schedule your free consultation.