When you suffer injuries in an accident, you have a limited time to start a legal case. This deadline is called the statute of limitations. In Georgia, it is very important to know this time limit if you plan to sue for your injuries. What do you need to know about this rule in Georgia for personal injury cases?
What is the statute of limitations?
The statute of limitations is a law that sets how long you have after an incident to begin legal action. When the period specified in a statute of limitations passes, you lose the right to file a lawsuit to claim damages. In Georgia, you usually have two years from the date of the injury to start a lawsuit for personal injuries like car accidents or slip and fall incidents.
Could the deadline be different in your situation?
There are exceptions to the general two-year rule that can extend or shorten this period. Some exceptions include:
- Loss of consortium: If a claim involves the loss of the benefits of a relationship with the injured person, Georgia law extends the statute of limitations to four years.
- Tolling for minors: If you were under 18 when injured, the time limit pauses until you turn 18. This means you can typically start a lawsuit until you are 20.
- Discovery rule: If you did not know about your injury right away, the time limit might start when you discover, or should have discovered, the injury.
If you think you have a case, it is wise to talk to a personal injury lawyer quickly. A skilled lawyer can help you understand these time limits and make sure you file your claim on time.
What if you miss the deadline?
Failing to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations typically results in losing your right to sue. If you miss this deadline, the court may dismiss your case.
Remember, the law is there to protect your rights, but you also need to act quickly and responsibly. Knowing these rules helps you take the right steps towards getting justice and compensation.