Why is time such a factor in your personal injury lawsuit?

On Behalf of | Jun 17, 2022 | Personal Injury

There’s nothing pleasant about being the victim of someone else’s negligence. Aside from the physical pain itself, you can easily face both emotional and financial difficulties. Your best option may be to file a personal injury lawsuit, but you must understand that the clock is ticking. 

The statute of limitations

Every person, whether they’re a medical professional, a business owner or the driver of a vehicle, owes you a duty to act with reasonable care. When a doctor doesn’t treat you according to the medical standard of care, when a business owner allows their building to become dangerous or when a driver causes an accident, they have failed in their duty. 

When you’re injured as a result of their failure, Louisiana gives you the right to file a personal injury lawsuit, so that you can be made whole again. You have 1 year from the date you’re injured to file; it is known as the statute of limitations: Otherwise, you lose the right to file forever. 

There’s another time concern

Every personal injury lawsuit is different. Who was negligent, how it led to your injury and what exactly should be done about it are questions that can only be answered after an investigation is complete. Your case depends on the evidence that the authorities collect. 

The more time passes, the more likely that evidence becomes either stale or unattainable. Even though the law gives you a year to take action, waiting may only hurt you in the end.

If you’re considering filing a personal injury lawsuit, speak to an experienced professional as soon as you’re able. They can help you begin the process quickly, so that your case is as strong as possible and the responsible party can be held accountable.