If you or a loved one have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be considering suing for compensation through a personal injury case. That is your right; however, there is a set amount of time that you can take legal action against the liable party.
To ensure you can file your lawsuit and get the compensation you deserve, make sure to find a personal injury attorney and start the process before the clock runs out.
What Are Statutes of Limitations?
Many states require plaintiffs (the individuals filing the claim) of personal injury cases to file claims before a deadline called a statute of limitations.
Statutes of limitations are laws that dictate the amount of time in which someone can act on a legal matter. These laws are designed to ensure the legal process is efficient and timely, and they vary by situation and state.
In most cases, if a plaintiff fails to meet the deadline, they will forfeit the opportunity to get compensation for their injuries.
What Is the Personal Injury Statute of Limitations in Illinois?
The state of Illinois sets a statute of limitations on all civil matters, including personal injury cases. Victims only have a limited time to initiate legal action if they want to seek damages.
For most situations, the Illinois personal injury statute of limitations is two years. If you are a victim of negligence and want to pursue compensation for your injuries, act immediately to ensure you file your lawsuit before the clock runs out.
When Does the Clock Start?
Regarding personal injury cases, the Illinois statute of limitations clock starts on the day the injury was sustained. The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims begins on the date of death. If the injured person was a child (under the age of 18) at the time of the accident, the time limit will not start until their 18th birthday.
There are some exceptions to this two-year statute of limitations in Illinois. The state has specific laws relating to medical malpractice lawsuits, claims for workers’ compensation benefits, and government tort cases. Additionally, the discovery rule may extend the length of time a plaintiff is able to submit a claim in some situations.
To get clarification on the Illinois personal injury statute of limitations for your unique case, talk to a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer.
Contact an Experienced Chicago Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Vasilatos Injury Law. We have represented hundreds of personal injury clients and obtained millions of dollars in awards for our clients in Chicago and across Illinois.
Our personal injury attorneys have experience in all aspects of personal injury law, and we are dedicated to helping our clients get the best possible compensation. Regardless of the nature of your case, you can rely on us to guide you toward a favorable outcome for you and your family.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
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