Semenza Law Alerts Scranton Residents to Time Limits on Filing Personal Injury Claims
Semenza Law Alerts Scranton Residents to Time Limits on Filing Personal Injury Claims
Blog Article
When you suffer a personal injury, whether in a car accident, slip and fall, or another unexpected incident, the last thing you may be thinking about is paperwork or court deadlines. However, the legal clock starts ticking the moment your injury occurs. Missing key timeframes can prevent you from getting the compensation you may be entitled to. Semenza Law is urging Scranton residents to understand their rights and take timely action to protect those rights.
In Pennsylvania, strict deadlines known as statutes of limitations govern how long you have to file a personal injury claim. If you fail to act within the allowed time, your case may be dismissed, regardless of how serious the injury or how strong the evidence.
Pennsylvania’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims
The Two-Year Rule
Under Pennsylvania law, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years from the date the injury occurred. This applies to cases involving car accidents, premises liability (like slip and falls), pedestrian incidents, and other injury-related scenarios caused by someone else’s negligence.
This two-year period applies whether you’re seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Filing even one day past the deadline can result in your case being thrown out of court.
Discovery Rule Exceptions
There are rare cases where the two-year period may be extended. For example, if the injury wasn’t immediately apparent, the “discovery rule” may apply. This means the clock starts when the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered, not when it actually happened.
That said, courts in Pennsylvania apply the discovery rule cautiously and only in specific cases. Speaking with a Scranton personal injury lawyer early is the best way to know if this rule could apply to your situation.
How Time Limits Impact Different Types of Claims
Car Accidents
Victims of car accidents have two years to file a claim against the at-fault driver. This includes both bodily injury and property damage claims. Pennsylvania's “choice no-fault” system can complicate matters, especially if you selected limited tort insurance. A qualified personal injury lawyer Scranton PA can help determine if you have grounds to pursue compensation beyond what insurance offers.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Premises liability claims, such as those resulting from slips, trips, or falls, also follow the two-year rule. In these cases, it's crucial to document evidence early, such as photos of the hazard and witness statements. Waiting too long may lead to lost evidence and difficulty in proving negligence.
Claims Involving Minors
When the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations is generally paused until the individual turns 18. From that point, they have two years to file a claim. However, parents or guardians may still pursue compensation on behalf of the child sooner. Legal guidance from personal injury lawyers ensures that these timelines are followed correctly.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until the Deadline
Evidence Deteriorates Over Time
Even though two years might sound like plenty of time, waiting can seriously hurt your case. Over time, physical evidence may be lost or altered. Witnesses may move, forget details, or become harder to locate. Surveillance footage that could support your claim may be deleted.
Engaging a Scranton personal injury lawyer early allows your legal team to gather and preserve crucial evidence that strengthens your case.
Insurance Companies Work Fast
Insurance companies typically begin their investigations immediately after an incident. They may try to offer quick settlements that don't reflect the full value of your claim. If you delay seeking legal help, you could miss out on critical leverage during negotiations or unknowingly sign away your rights.
Missed Deadlines Mean Lost Compensation
Failing to file within the statute of limitations means you’ll likely lose the chance to receive any compensation, no matter how legitimate your claim may be. Once the deadline has passed, the courts will almost always dismiss the case automatically.
The Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer in Meeting Legal Deadlines
Managing Case Timelines
An experienced personal injury lawyer Scranton PA will immediately evaluate the statute of limitations that applies to your case and ensure you meet all required filing dates. Whether it’s dealing with insurers, preparing a lawsuit, or negotiating a settlement, your legal team handles every step efficiently and on time.
Handling Complex Scenarios
There are many factors that can affect your timeline. For instance, government-related cases (such as injuries on public property or involving a city vehicle) often have even shorter notice requirements, sometimes as little as six months. In such cases, finding personal injury lawyers near me with local knowledge can make a difference in how your case proceeds.
What Scranton Residents Should Do After an Injury
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Even if injuries seem minor, medical records serve as key evidence in personal injury claims.
- Document the Scene – Photos, witness info, and reports can help support your version of events.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters Alone – Anything you say may be used to minimize your claim.
- Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer Early – Don’t wait to explore your legal options. A delay could mean losing the chance to file altogether.
About Semenza Law
Based in Scranton, PA, Semenza Law is a trusted legal resource for individuals seeking representation in personal injury cases. The firm focuses on helping victims of car accidents, slip and fall incidents, pedestrian injuries, and other negligence-related events. Their goal is to secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering, while guiding clients through every legal step with clarity and compassion.
If you or someone you know has been injured due to another person’s negligence, it’s important to act quickly. Contact Semenza Law today to speak with a reliable Scranton personal injury lawyer who understands Pennsylvania law and will work to protect your rights before time runs out.
Semenza Law Firm
108 N Washington Ave, Scranton, PA 18503
570–538–724
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