If you’ve suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence in Pensacola, Florida, you may be wondering how long you have to file a personal injury claim. Understanding the time limits and the process is crucial to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
The statute of limitations sets the time frame within which you must file your personal injury claim. In Florida, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. However, there are exceptions that could shorten or extend this time frame depending on the circumstances of your case.
For example:
- Medical Malpractice claims may have specific deadlines based on when the injury was discovered. Learn more about medical malpractice cases.
- Wrongful Death cases typically have a two-year deadline, but it’s important to act quickly. Find out more about wrongful death claims.
- Accidents involving government entities, special rules and shorter deadlines may apply.
Because of these nuances, consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Pensacola as soon as possible is critical.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Even though you may have two years to file, waiting can jeopardize your case. Key reasons to act quickly include:
- Preserving Evidence: Evidence such as photos, medical records and witness statements may become unavailable over time.
- Finding Witnesses: Memories fade, and witnesses may become harder to locate the longer you wait.
- Building a Strong Case: Timely action gives your attorney more time to investigate and prepare your claim.
At McLeod & Thompson, we emphasize the importance of early investigation. Our team has decades of experience helping clients in cases such as car accidents, motorcycle accidents and more.
What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?
Failing to file your claim within the statute of limitations generally means you lose the right to pursue compensation. However, there may be exceptions:
- If the injured party is a minor, the clock may not start until they reach legal adulthood.
- In cases where the injury isn’t immediately discovered, the statute of limitations may begin when the injury becomes apparent.
If you’re unsure about your case’s time limits, consult with a board-certified personal injury attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Whether you’ve been injured in a car accident, motorcycle accident or due to medical malpractice, understanding the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is vital to protecting your right to compensation.
Navigating personal injury claims can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. At McLeod & Thompson, we’ve spent over 40 years helping clients in Pensacola and beyond recover the compensation they deserve. From auto accidents to medical malpractice, we’re here to fight for you. McLeod & Thompson has the expertise and resources to guide you through the process. Reach out today for compassionate and experienced legal support.
Call us today at (850) 444-4444 or contact us online for a free consultation. Don’t wait—your time to act may be limited.