Is there a time limit for a filing a lawsuit for injuries from an auto accident in New Jersey?
Yes, the time limit to file most personal injury claims in New Jersey is two (2) years. However, if the injured person was under the age of 18 when the injury occurred, they may have until age 20 to bring a claim. This is known as the statute of limitations. That’s why it is important to promptly consult an experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyer who has handled many auto accident claims. A car accident lawyer can start working on your behalf immediately, helping you to avoid common mistakes and gathering evidence that might not be available if you delay too long.
Warning, if your accident involved the State of New Jersey, or a county or municipality, the Board of Education or any other state agency, authorities or state employees then you must comply with the New Jersey Tort Claim Act which requires a special notice to be filed within 90 days of the accident. There are a few very limited exceptions. However, if you do not file this notice with the approved government entity within 90 days, your claim may be barred, and if filed in court it may be dismissed. Please note that there is a one year statute of limitations with the New Jersey Port Authority.
Under certain circumstances other time limits apply. A pedestrian struck by a car or a motorcycle has six months to file a claim with the Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association (PLIGA) who would likely by responsible to pay the pedestrian’s medical bills. Furthermore, if the at-fault driver was an employee of any governmental entity such as the state, county, city or even boards, such as the Board of Education, there is a separate time limit of 90 days from the accident date to give them special “Tort Claims Notice” on their special form. Failure to do so could be fatal to your accident case.
Our experienced New Jersey automobile accident lawyers understand how crashes occur. We are skilled at analyzing automobile and truck accidents to identify driver negligence. We know how to present a compelling case to an insurance company or jury. We have obtained millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients. The focus of our practice is representing people who were injured in accidents through the negligence of others.
Call our auto accident lawyers today at (800) LAW-2000 or use our online form to receive a free initial consultation. Translators for all languages are available.
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