Civil wrongs are known as torts. Under Indiana law, a person or entity that commits a tort is liable for damages to personal injury victims. Most often, liable parties try to avoid paying damages, and so the only effective way to ensure compensation is for victims to file personal injury claims.

Personal injury claims in Indiana must comply with a statute of limitations. This means victims must file claims within a specified period after the injury, or the law permanently bars the opportunity to recover damages.

If you suffered an injury and someone else is responsible, speak to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Call the Law Offices of Hurst Limontes at (317) 636-0808 or contact us online to discuss your potential case.

Statute of Limitations Explained

Statutes of limitations govern the time limits associated with the right to file a lawsuit. Under Indiana law, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years. This limit applies whether the injury was intentional or caused by negligence.

The most important thing to understand is that the clock begins ticking when the injury occurs.

Missed Deadlines

Missing the statute of limitations deadline can destroy a potential claim, and prevent any chance of the recovery of damages for the injured party. This is true regardless of whether the claim would ultimately have settled or gone to court. Defendants will move to dismiss any claims made after the statute of limitations has expired, and unless an exception applies, Indiana’s courts will grant the dismissal.

Statute of Limitations Exceptions

The statute of limitations clock may pause or stop in these specific situations:

• Legally disabled people are not subject to the statute of limitations until they are no longer disabled.
• When a potential defendant leaves Indiana following the accident, but before filing a claim, the time spent as a non-resident of the state may not count as part of the statute of limitations.
• When a potential defendant conceals responsibility for the injury of another, the statute of limitations will not begin until the period of concealment ends.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Attorney

If you were injured, you may feel overwhelmed. Don’t allow the time pressure of complying with Indiana’s statute of limitations to add to your worries. Speak with an experienced and knowledgeable a lawyer as soon as possible.

The lawyers at the Law Offices of Hurst Limontes help personal injury victims protect their rights. If someone else caused your injuries, or those of a loved one, call the Law Offices of William W. Hurst at (317) 636-0808 or use our online form and contact us.