If you have been involved in an accident, it is in your best interest to look into the Indiana statute of limitations. This statute outlines the regulations and deadlines for legal proceedings. If you are considering pursuing an Indiana auto accident case, this is information you will need to know prior to filing a claim.
Indiana Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations explains the time limits that apply to various cases and types of legal proceedings. Once the deadline has lapsed, you (or any other injured party) no longer will able to sue for damages that resulted from an accident.
The deadlines vary, depending on the type of case:
- Personal Injury: 2 years
- Product Liability (i.e., defective brakes, airbags, seatbelts, etc.): 2 years
- Wrongful Death: 2 years from the date of death
Make sure that you do not take the statute of limitations lightly or as “guidelines.” They are firm deadlines and must be upheld properly. It is in your best interest to take legal action as soon as possible after an accident because many cases require substantial evidence to prove a claim. If you wait too long to bring your case to the attention of an attorney, there may not be enough time to gather the necessary evidence and build a solid case on your behalf.
Additionally, prolonging the act of taking legal action can harm your claim because the opposite party may downplay your injuries if you don’t take action quickly. This is why it’s important that you seek immediate medical attention and contact an experienced attorney as soon after your accident as possible. Even if you feel as if your injuries are minor, you should still be seen by a doctor. Injuries that appear minor can flare up in the coming days or weeks.
Take Action on Your Indiana Auto Accident Case
It’s strongly recommended that you consult with or hire an Indiana personal injury attorney to evaluate your claim. Not every accident warrants an injury claim and an attorney can advise you on what action to take.
If it can be determined that another driver’s negligence led to your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and incidental expenses related to your accident.