If you were recently injured in a slip and fall accident, you may wonder how long you’ll have to file a lawsuit. Read this blog and reach out to a New York City slip and fall lawyer from our legal team to learn more. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What is the Statute of Limitations for a Slip and Fall Lawsuit in NYC?
New York’s legal framework imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims, known as the statute of limitations. For slip and fall accidents, this period is generally three years from the date of the incident. This means that if you’ve suffered an injury due to a fall, you have exactly three years to file a lawsuit against the party at fault. Failing to act within this timeframe typically results in the loss of your right to sue.
Why Is the Statute of Limitations Important?
The statute of limitations serves several pivotal functions. Primarily, it ensures evidence integrity, including witness recollections and physical proofs, which tend to degrade over time. Furthermore, it provides potential defendants with a degree of legal certainty, ensuring they won’t face lawsuits indefinitely.
For victims, understanding this timeline is crucial. It dictates the urgency with which they must pursue legal counsel and initiate their claim, ensuring they don’t forfeit their right to compensation due to procedural delays.
Are There Exceptions to the Standard Time Limit?
Yes, exceptions can extend or shorten the filing deadline in certain circumstances. For instance, if the victim is a minor at the time of the accident, the countdown doesn’t begin until they reach the age of majority (18 years in New York).
Conversely, claims against government entities require a notice of claim to be filed within 90 days of the incident, followed by a shorter one-year-and-ninety-day limit to sue.
It’s also worth noting that cases involving death may alter the statute’s application, potentially providing a different timeframe for filing a wrongful death claim. Hence, consulting with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer soon after your accident is imperative to navigate these nuances.
If you have further questions or are looking to file a premises liability claim, please don’t hesitate to speak with The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny today.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW YORK CITY FIRM
Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, call (212) 421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a New York City personal injury lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help you on your road to recovery.
