The Indiana statute of limitations allows personal injury victims up to two years to file a claim. However, certain rare instances may give you more time to file. If you have suffered a personal injury due to someone else’s negligence, it is always in your best interests to consult with a qualified lawyer immediately.
Contact our law firm and ask to meet with a legal team member who will gladly provide you with a free case review and determine the appropriate legal action.
What Are the Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations?
Several exceptions to the statute of limitations may allow injury victims more time to file a claim. They include:
- Legal disabilities: If the individual who has been injured is under a legal disability, the statute of limitations will not begin until the disability is removed. Once the disability has been removed, the injury victim will have up to two years to file their claim.
- Non-residence: If the liable party leaves the state between the time the accident occurred and before the lawsuit can be filed, the statute of limitations may be tolled while the responsible party is a nonresident.
- Concealment: If the liable party attempts to conceal their responsibility, the statute of limitations may not begin until the facts of the case are discovered.
Is the Statute of Limitations Different For Minors?
Unlike adults who only have two years from the date of their injury to file a claim, the statute of limitations does not begin for minors until they reach the age of 18 years old. Due to the time litigation may take to complete, most minors have until their 20th birthday to pursue compensation.
The laws surrounding the various exceptions to filing a claim can be overly complex and challenging to try and navigate on your own. Our personal injury lawyers can help you understand the complicated laws and inform you of your potential legal options.
What Happens if a Personal Injury Claim is Not Filed on Time?
If you fail to file your personal injury claim before the statute of limitations runs out but file anyway, there is a strong chance your case will be dismissed. Of course, this may not apply to you if your case meets the standards outlined by state law. This is one reason you must consult with a qualified attorney after being injured in an accident to take advantage of your opportunity to file your claim.
How Can Your Law Firm Help Me Avoid Missing the Statute of Limitations Deadline?
One of the first steps you need to take after being injured by another person’s negligence is to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer. Our attorneys can assist you with filing a claim to ensure that it is filled out correctly and turned in on time.
Contact our law offices by calling 812-247-8416 and asking to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.