A Comprehensive Guide to Colorado’s Statute of Limitations in Personal Injury Cases
When you suffer an injury due to someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to seek compensation through a personal injury claim. However, it’s essential to understand that there is a time limit within which you must file your claim.
This time limit, known as the statute of limitations, varies from state to state. In this article, we will discuss the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Colorado and the importance of acting promptly to protect your legal rights.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations:
The statute of limitations is a legal deadline within which a person must file a lawsuit. In Colorado, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident or injury. This means that if you do not file a lawsuit within two years, you will lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
However, there are some exceptions to this two-year time limit. For instance, if your personal injury claim involves a motor vehicle accident, you have three years from the date of the accident to file your lawsuit. It’s important to note that these time limits apply regardless of whether the responsible party is an individual, a business, or a government entity.
Exceptions and Extensions:
There are certain situations in which the statute of limitations may be extended or “tolled.” For example:
- Discovery Rule: In certain cases, if you were not aware of your injury and could not have reasonably discovered it within the standard two-year time frame, the statute of limitations may be extended. In such cases, you will have two years from the date you discovered or should have discovered the injury to file your claim.
- Minors: If the injured person is a minor (under 18 years old) at the time of the accident, the statute of limitations may be tolled until they turn 18. Once they turn 18, then the statute of limitations begins to run.
- Legal Disability: If the injured person has a legal disability (such as mental illness or cognitive impairment) that prevents them from filing a claim, the statute of limitations may be extended until the disability is removed, unless the individual is legally represented during this period.
- Fraud or Concealment: If the defendant actively concealed their involvement in the accident or injury, the statute of limitations may be extended.
The Importance of Acting Promptly:
Even though the statute of limitations provides a time frame for filing a personal injury claim, it is crucial to act as soon as possible. Evidence can be lost or destroyed over time, and witnesses’ memories may fade, making it more difficult to prove your case. Additionally, waiting too long to seek legal representation can negatively impact your claim.
In conclusion, understanding the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Colorado is vital to ensure that you don’t lose your right to seek compensation. If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact an experienced Colorado personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and protect your legal rights.
