After a car wreck or other personal injury claims, you may have heard the phrase “statute of limitations.” You might not know how that affects your claim, or how long you have to bring a claim. We’re here to help. A statute of limitations is a law providing limited time periods to legally bring your claim to the other party’s attention, and either settle it or file suit. If you don’t do that before the time limit runs, your claim is dead.

In North Carolina, most personal injury claims (car wrecks, dog bites, animal attacks, trucking collisions, bicycle and motorcycle wrecks, falls and other premises claims, nursing home negligence, etc.) are governed by our negligence laws, with these general time limits:

▶︎  For most personal injury claims, three years from the date of injury

▶︎  For wrongful death claims, two years from the date of death, but not more than three years from the date of the original injury

▶︎  For negligent property damage claims, whether to vehicles, real property, personal property, pets, etc, three years from the date of the injury/ damage

▶︎  ALL of these claims can have some exceptions (especially for claims involving minor children), so it’s always best to consult a lawyer to get all the information you need

Insurance adjusters may suggest the time limits are much shorter, trying to pressure you into settling. Don’t fall into that trap. However, you SHOULD move quickly to protect your rights, so it’s critical to consult an attorney as soon as you can following an injury. The Miller Law Group has lawyers with over 50 years of combined personal injury experience. Contact us today through our website, or call 919-348-4361 for a free consultation. Get the facts and the help you need to protect yourself and your family. We’ve got your back.

Car Wreck Statutes of Limitations

Claims for Injuries to Pets and Other Animals

Avoid Subrogation Fraud