Explaining North Carolina’s Injury Statute of Limitations

Statute of limitations is a legal term that is used to describe the length of time someone has to bring a claim up in court. With personal injury cases, this is the length of time the injured party has to sue the responsible party for the injuries sustained. 

If the statute of limitations expires, courts generally will not allow a case to be brought up. There are some exceptions to this, though. Every state’s statute of limitations is different, and the lawyers at The Nye Law Group can help you determine your time limits. 

You don’t want to lose your opportunity for the compensation you deserve. Understand North Carolina’s statute of limitations for personal injuries so you don’t miss out. 

Personal Injury Claim Time Frame in North Carolina

Many personal injury cases have direct causes. For example, a car accident will result in injuries almost immediately or shortly after the accident. Because of this, car accident claims are subject to North Carolina’s statute of limitations starting at the time of the accident. 

North Carolina has a statute of limitations of three years from the date of the accident. This applies unless the injury is less straightforward. If so, the rule of discovery applies. 

If the injury has not immediately been discovered during an accident or shortly thereafter, a case can be brought up when the accident is discovered. It has to be within a reasonable time. Cases under this exception can be brought up within ten years during the statute of repose. 

There are other types of injury claims that can be brought up. These other claims are subject to a different statute of limitation times. 

Statute of Limitation for Product Liability Claims

Products that are defective are subject to the same three-year statute as other personal injury claims. However, you must file your claim within twelve years of the purchase date of the defective product. 

So even if the defect did not cause an injury until several years after being purchased, you can still file a claim. You just have three years from the date of injury to file. 

Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations

If you have a loved one who was killed due to the negligence of another, you have the right to seek compensation. Losing a loved one is never easy, you want justice for the incident.

A wrongful death claim has to be filed within two years. The two years start on the day the individual dies. Evidence and information should be collected from this date and the dates leading up to the incident. 

Find Help For Your Personal Injury Claim

Don’t let your claim expire. Regardless of the circumstance, it is crucial that you know the timeframe you’re working with. There is a very narrow list of reasons for filing beyond the statute of limitations if you miss your deadline. 

There are many different exceptions and rules that apply to any given case. It is important to work with a personal injury claim lawyer in North Carolina. Working with them can improve your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. 

Call The Nye Law Group at 912-200-5230 to find out what your options are. Seeking help within the statute of limitations is vital to the success of your claim.