How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Louisiana?
How long do you have to file a personal injury claim in Louisiana?
If you’re wondering this, you’re not alone. After experiencing a personal injury, your first thought may not be to take legal action. But without knowing your time limits for filing, you may miss the chance to seek the justice you deserve. The attorneys at Domengeaux Wright Roy & Edwards are here to help you understand the critical deadlines that affect your rights. Whether you’ve experienced a car crash, a slip and fall, or medical malpractice, knowing when to act can make all the difference.
Understanding Personal Injury
A personal injury happens when someone is harmed due to another’s actions. Common examples include:
These incidents can cause physical pain, emotional distress, and financial strain. Seeking compensation helps cover medical bills and other related expenses.
What Is the Statute of Limitations?
Are you asking, “How long do you have to file a personal injury claim in Louisiana?” The statute of limitations gives you your answer.
The statute of limitations, also called the “prescriptive period,” is a time limit for filing a legal case. This timeframe usually starts when you suffer an injury — either the day of the incident or at a later date when medical concerns develop. Once the time limit is up, you cannot file a lawsuit and might lose the chance to seek justice. Acting within the set timeframe is essential to protect your rights.
Recent Changes in Louisiana Law
During Louisiana’s 2024 legislative session, Governor Jeff Landry signed Act 423. This doubled Louisiana’s statute of limitations, effective as of July 1, 2024.
Previously, Louisiana gave victims one year to file a personal injury claim. Now, you have two years to file for injuries or property damage that occurred on or after July 1, 2024. However, the one-year limit still applies if the incident happened before this date.
This extension applies to personal injury claims, including car and truck collisions, motorcycle crashes, and slip and fall incidents. However, not all personal injury claims have this new prescriptive period. For example, premises liability claims still fall under the one-year statute of limitations.
If you have questions about the prescriptive period for your situation, our lawyers can help.
Why This Extension Helps Victims
This new law is a significant change. It offers victims more time to:
- Carefully investigate and gather evidence
- Consult with legal professionals
- Prepare a strong case
This extra time is crucial for a thorough investigation. It helps ensure you’re ready to present a compelling argument.
How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Louisiana? Our Attorneys Can Help
Choosing a lawyer can help increase the chances of reaching a positive outcome. At Domengeaux Wright Roy & Edwards, we understand Louisiana law. Our team is dedicated to supporting victims and fighting for what they deserve.
Start with a free initial consultation. During this meeting, we will discuss the details of the incident to determine if you have a valid claim. If you have a valid claim and choose to partner with us, we will work hard to help you get justice.
If you aren’t sure how long you have to file a personal injury claim in Louisiana, don’t wait. Time is of the essence. Call us today at 337-291-HURT (4878) or message us to schedule your free consultation. With our guidance, you can confidently navigate the legal process.
