Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Georgia

Personal injury claims are a common occurrence in Georgia, with many individuals being injured due to the negligence of others. The statute of limitations is an important legal concept that governs the time limit for filing a personal injury claim. 

In this article, we will explore the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Georgia and why it is important to act promptly if you have been injured.

What is a Statute of Limitations?

The statute of limitations is a legal concept that sets the time limit within which a plaintiff must file a lawsuit. Failure to file a lawsuit within the specified time limit can result in the plaintiff forfeiting their right to bring a claim.

What is the Importance of Statute of Limitations in Personal Injury Claims

The statute of limitations is an important concept in personal injury claims because it ensures that cases are resolved in a timely manner. This helps to avoid situations where evidence is lost due to the passage of time, and it also ensures that defendants are not subjected to the threat of a lawsuit indefinitely.

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Georgia

A. Time Limit for Filing a Personal Injury Claim

In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. This means that if you have been injured due to the negligence of another party, you must file a lawsuit within two years of the date of the injury.

B. Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations

There are certain exceptions to the statute of limitations in Georgia, which can extend the time limit for filing a lawsuit. For example, if the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations does not begin to run until the minor turns 18. Additionally, if the injury was not immediately discoverable, such as in cases of medical malpractice, the statute of limitations may be extended.

Why You Should Not Wait to File a Personal Injury Claim

A. Evidence Preservation

One of the main reasons why you should not wait to file a personal injury claim is because evidence can be lost or destroyed over time. Witnesses may forget important details, and physical evidence may deteriorate or be discarded. By acting promptly, you can ensure that evidence is preserved and that your case has the best chance of success.

B. Avoiding the Risk of Forfeiting Your Rights

Another reason why you should immediately file a personal injury claim is that you risk forfeiting your right to bring a claim if you wait too long. Once the statute of limitations has expired, you will be barred from bringing a lawsuit, regardless of the strength of your case.

Steps to Take If You Have Been Injured in Georgia

A. Seek Medical Attention

If you have been injured in Georgia, the first step you should take is to seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to get a medical evaluation to ensure that no underlying conditions could worsen over time.

B. Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

Once you have received medical attention, the next step is to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate the strength of your case, and guide you through the legal process.

C. Preserve Evidence

Finally, it is important to preserve evidence that may be relevant to your case. This includes taking photographs of the accident scene, obtaining witness statements, and preserving any physical evidence that may be relevant to your case.

Conclusion

The statute of limitations is an important concept in personal injury claims in Georgia. If you have been injured due to the negligence of another party, it is essential to act promptly to ensure that your case has the best chance of success.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to the negligence of another party, don’t wait to seek legal help from the Latin Law Group. Our experienced lawyers for personal injury are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help you with your personal injury case.