Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Ohio
In Ohio, the law sets a specific time frame, known as the statute of limitations, within which you must file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries. This time frame is usually two years from the date of the accident or injury. While that may sound like a long time, it’s crucial to act promptly. The earlier you consult an attorney, the better the chances you’ll have to secure the compensation you deserve. The statute of limitations is a legal rule that applies to most personal injury cases in Ohio. It ensures that both parties—those who may be at fault and the injured person—are not forced to deal with legal claims that are too old. Over time, evidence can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses can become difficult to track down. The law aims to encourage claims to be made while the details are still fresh and available.Exceptions to the Two-Year Rule
While the standard rule is two years, there are some important exceptions that may extend or reduce the time you have to file your lawsuit. For example, if you are injured by a government entity, such as a city or state agency, the time to file could be much shorter, sometimes as little as one year. Additionally, if the person responsible for your injury was a minor or if the injury was not immediately apparent, you may have more time to file a claim. Another exception applies to cases involving individuals who were incapacitated at the time of the accident. In situations where a person was mentally or physically unable to pursue legal action, the statute of limitations may be paused until the person is capable of filing their lawsuit. Each case is unique, so it’s crucial to discuss the details of your situation with an attorney who can evaluate your specific circumstances and advise you on the correct timeline.
Dan Ryan
Attorney
Elizabeth Fitzgerald
Paralegal
Our objectives remain clear in every case we pursue: To give every client, without delay, excuse or equivocation, our full attention, sound advice and forceful representation.
About Our FirmWhy Timing Matters in Personal Injury Cases
Time is a critical factor in any personal injury case, and the clock starts ticking the moment you are injured. You might feel like you have time to focus on healing, but as time passes, evidence that could help your case may be lost or destroyed. Medical records, witness statements, and even video footage can become harder to obtain as time goes on. Additionally, waiting too long to file your lawsuit can also hurt your credibility in the eyes of the court. Defendants in personal injury cases often argue that if the injury was serious, it would have been addressed immediately. A delay in filing might lead the court to question the severity of the injury or the validity of the claim. Filing early also allows your attorney to gather important evidence while it’s still fresh, which can strengthen your case. When you file on time, you give your attorney the best opportunity to secure a favorable outcome for you.
The attorneys at Ryan Injury Lawyers treat you like family. They are extremely professional, kind, respectful and intelligently know the law. Highly recommend. They are well above par.
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