The statutes of limitations for personal injuries in Illinois
Have you sustained injuries due to another person’s negligence? Then you need to act fast because time is not on your side. Depending on the circumstances of your injuries, you have limited time within which you can seek legal redress for the other party’s negligence. This is a very important consideration for your personal injury claim, especially if insurance settlement negotiations hit a snag.
The law that sets the maximum time allowed for parties to settle matters in court is called the statute of limitations, and it varies across jurisdictions. Here is what you need to know if your injuries occur in Illinois.
How much time do you have?
Under Illinois law, you have two years from the date you suffered your injuries to go to court. However, in some instances where you were unaware of the injuries, the time starts running when you discover them or ought to have discovered them. This time limit covers all cases of personal injuries such as medical malpractice, auto accidents, slip and falls, among others.
What if you go beyond the two years?
If you go beyond the statute of limitations, your claim could be dismissed, and you may lose your right to compensation for your injuries. It means that you will have to settle for the insurance company’s offer, if any, which might not be enough to cover all the damages you suffered.
However, there are exceptions to this. For instance, if you were a minor at the time or your injuries resulted in a disability, the two-year window does not begin to run immediately after you suffered the injuries.
Adhering to these timelines and navigating your case with the proper knowledge will ensure your rights are protected, and it can help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.