time limits for filing lawsuit | Craven, Hoover, & Blazek P.C.

Average Timelines for Accident Lawsuits

When it comes to personal injury cases, there is no one answer for how long it will take. Each case is unique and different, making the timeline of resolution hard to predict. As for trials, the length of proceedings varies significantly. Depending on the complexity of the case, the amount of evidence presented, and other factors that could lead to unforeseen problems or delays in proceedings, it can take months or even years before a trial occurs.

Proper preparation by both lawyers involved is imperative to move the proceedings along properly without delay. Obtaining witnesses with relevant testimony and assembling concise courtroom documents all play a part in how long a personal injury trial can take. Additionally, competent legal counsel is an essential asset for directing negotiations regarding settlement pre-trial or securing an award post trial.

Ultimately, there is no one simple answer as to how long an accident trial will take. Each case is different and must be approached intellectually with open-mindedness and expertise in order to provide the quickest resolution possible. With an experienced Indianapolis personal injury attorney in your corner, you can feel confident that your case is being handled properly and achieving the best possible outcome.

General Steps to the Civil Claims Process

In personal injury cases, there are several steps to the claims process. First, accident victims must receive medical treatment and document their injury. Second, they must locate an experienced personal injury law firm in Indianapolis who can help them file an accident claim. Third, the injury case must be negotiated with relevant insurers or other parties—either through settlement discussions or in court. The vast majority of personal injury cases are settled without having to go to court but it is important to obtain all relevant evidence for all cases just in case an injury case does not get settled without going to court.

The personal injury claims process can be lengthy and complex, so it’s important to have an experienced professional on your side. A certified accident lawyer in Indianapolis will help you navigate the legal system, negotiate a fair settlement amount for you, and represent your interests in the courtroom if necessary. This is not something to take lightly; personal injury cases can have life-altering implications, and you want to ensure that your rights are fully protected.

If you’ve been injured in an accident you need assistance with your personal injury claim so please contact a qualified personal injury lawyer today. Remember: when it comes to personal injury cases, the sooner the better! Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. has the experience and skills to obtain the full and fair compensation you deserve. We represent injured victims throughout Indiana, as well as Indiana residents who have been injured or wrongly killed in other states. Schedule a free consultation by calling our office directly at 317-881-2700, today.

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Whether you are a victim of libel, slander, or injury, it is in your best interest to learn how much time you have to bring about a claim against the at-fault party who caused your damages. This time period is known as statute of limitations, and here in the Hoosier state, they can differ depending on the type of accident or injury.

For now, continue reading to review the common Indiana civil statute of limitations, and learn where to get the most trusted legal advice for your personal injury claim in Indianapolis.

Indianapolis Personal Injury Lawyers 317-881-2700

Civil Statute of Limitation Laws in Indiana

Victims of personal injuries or torts, including next of kin and immediate family members who have lost a loved one because of a wrongful death accident, must file their personal injury claim or civil action against an at-fault party within a set period of time. This deadline is known as the Indiana statute of limitations.

For most personal injury cases, the Indiana statute of limitations is two years. In fact, most states have a similar statute of limitations for most civil actions and tort cases. But for other types of accidents and injuries in Indiana, the statute of limitations could be as high as 20 years or as low as six months.

Here are some of the most common types of civil action cases, as well as their statute of limitations:

► Injury to a Person – 2 Years
► Libel/Slander – 2 Years
► Professional Malpractice – 2 Years
► Fraud – 6 Years
► Trespassing – 2 Years
► Harm to Personal Property – 2 Years
► Collection of Debt on Account – 2 Years
► Collection of Rent – 6 Years
► Contracts – 10 Years Written, 6 Years Oral, 2 Years Employment Agreements, 6 Years Payment of Money

A Possible Exception Could Be the Discovery Rule

Many states have some form of a “discovery rule” exception to their statute of limitations, which extends the filing deadline for making a personal injury claim under very specific circumstances. This discovery rule extension is generally granted when a personal injury victim did not know about their injuries until after the statute of limitations expired, who was responsible for the accident until after the statute of limitations ran out, or that the suspected liable party’s actions may have caused their injuries until after the statute of limitations expired. This is common in medical malpractice cases.

Governmental Defendants

If the defendant is a governmental agency your time limitations for making a claim are significantly reduced. A Tort Claim Notice has to be sent to the possible governmental defendant in less that 6 months in some circumstances.

Why You Need to File a Claim ASAP

Because Indiana does have statute of limitation laws for civil actions and personal injury claims, it is important to act fast on your claim. The clock begins to take as soon as your accident takes place, so be sure to contact Indiana personal injury law firm as soon as you have been medically stabilized. They can take on all elements and aspects of your personal injury case from that point and ensure that you obtain the maximum settlement or verdict for your claim.

Not sure which personal injury law firm in Indiana trust for the best representation? Contact the Law Office of Craven, Hoover, and Blazek P.C. at 317-881-2700 to speak with a seasoned Indianapolis IN accident attorney you can trust. We represent clients all throughout Indiana, and offer free initial case evaluations over the phone, via online video, or in person.

You Should Also Read:

Is There Still Time to File My Indiana Personal Injury Claim?
Can a Personal Injury Statute of Limitations Be Extended?
Qualities to Look For When Choosing a Personal Injury Attorney

Craven, Hoover, & Blazek P.C.

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