Statutes of limitations are important legal deadlines for filing legal action in court, set out by each state’s laws. Under state law, the statute of limitations in Colorado for personal injury lawsuits is generally two years, though your case’s specific circumstances might affect this timeline.
The clock starts ticking right away, so do not wait to consult an experienced personal injury attorney from Grant & Associates to determine the applicable statute of limitations for your particular case. Time limits can be complicated, and not filing a lawsuit before the deadline can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Don’t delay; contact Grant & Associates today to ensure your attorney files your personal injury claim on time.
Statute of Limitations in Colorado for Most Injury Lawsuits
In Colorado, the statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits is two years from the accident and injuries. If you are injured due to someone else’s negligence and wish to file a personal injury lawsuit, you must do so within two years. Note that this time limit applies to most types of personal injury cases, including:
- Slip and fall accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Product liability claims
The Statute of Limitations is Different for Car Accident Cases
When you have an injury case stemming from a vehicle crash, the statute of limitations in Colorado is different. In these cases, the law gives you three years from the date of the accident to file an injury lawsuit. This extended time limit allows for the fact that injuries sustained in a car accident may take longer to manifest or for the full extent of the damages to be determined.
Other Possible Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations in Colorado
While the general statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Colorado is two years, some exceptions can affect this timeframe.
One exception is known as the “discovery rule.” This rule allows the statute of limitations to be extended if a victim did not immediately discover an injury or the true cause of their injury until a later date.
Another exception is known as the “minority tolling” rule, which pauses the start of the usual statute of limitations until minors reach the age of 18.
Your personal injury attorney can advise whether an exception applies to your case.
Why You Cannot Miss the Statute of Limitations
Failing to file a lawsuit by the statute of limitations in Colorado can have serious consequences.
Losing the Right to File a Lawsuit
If you miss the statute of limitations, you can lose your right to seek compensation in civil court altogether. This means that you will be unable to seek legal relief and recovery for your injuries, medical expenses, lost earnings, or any other damages through the court system.
Losing Leverage with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to delay resolving claims, possibly hoping the injured party will miss the statute of limitations deadline. By missing this deadline, you lose valuable leverage in negotiations with the insurance company. They know that you can no longer file a lawsuit, which can affect the amount of settlement they may offer. You have few other options but to accept what they decide to offer you at this point.
Contact Our Colorado Personal Injury Attorneys Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Grant & Associates today online or at 970-356-5666 for a free consultation. Our team of skilled attorneys will assess your case, explain the applicable statute of limitations, and guide you through the entire legal process. Remember, time is short for potential personal injury claims. Call Grant & Associates now, and let us fight for your rights.