If you’ve been in a car accident in Bethlehem, PA, the statute of limitations for a car accident is two years. Knowing your rights and the laws that apply to your case is essential, and a Bethlehem car accident lawyer can advise and guide you through the process. Protect your legal rights and start with a free case review with Munley Law.
Munley Law has been handling complex car accident claims and cases for our clients since 1959. We have won millions of dollars in settlements to date, including verdicts worth $9.95 million and $4.4 million. Our attorneys are recognized by the Litigation Counsel of America, the International Society of Barristers, and the American Association for Justice, at which Marion Munley currently serves as Vice President. All of our lawyers are members of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and have received honors from Best Lawyers, including Marion Munley, who is named Lawyer of the Year for Personal Injury Litigation. Eight of our lawyers have been recognized by Super Lawyers, and J. Christopher Munley is featured in the National Trial Lawyers Association’s Top 25 Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyers list as well.
Protect your legal rights and start with a free case review with Munley Law. We offer no-obligation initial consultations and charge no fees unless we win your car accident case.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Pennsylvania
Simply put, a statute of limitations is a time limit for filing a legal claim after an accident. If you don’t keep track of the time limit, you might miss out on the chance to seek compensation. Two years may seem straightforward, but in most cases, the clock starts on the accident date.
It’s essential to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer to understand the specific deadlines and exceptions that may apply to your personal injury case. Missing the deadline could mean you can no longer file your car accident lawsuit, so you must act within the specified time frame.
Call Us At 844-686-5397 What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?
If you miss the deadline to file a legal claim after a car accident in Bethlehem, PA, you may lose your right to recover compensation. This is why it’s critical to understand and adhere to the statute of limitations. If you fail to file within the specified time frame, the court will likely dismiss your case. This means you cannot recover damages for your injuries or other losses, including medical bills and lost wages.
That’s why it’s so important to consult with a Bethlehem car accident lawyer as soon as possible after an accident. They can ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and guide you through the legal process to protect your rights and maximize your chances of obtaining compensation. Don’t let the statute of limitations prevent you from getting the compensation you deserve – take legal action promptly.
“Honoring those who came before us, Munley Law proudly continues our family tradition of innovation, caring, and integrity. Three generations of Munleys have built this firm on one belief: that injured people deserve the same fierce advocacy that the powerful receive as a matter of course. That belief still drives everything we do.”
Caroline Munley
Are There Any Exceptions to the PA Statute of Limitations Rule?
As with many things, there are exceptions to the statute of limitations under Pennsylvania law. These exceptions are the discovery rule and tolling, and both apply to more than just car accident claims.
Discovery Rule
One common exception is the discovery rule. This means that if the injury resulting from the car accident was not immediately apparent or could not have reasonably been discovered at the time of the collision, the statute of limitations may begin when the injury is found instead of the date you were injured.
Tolling
Another exception is the tolling of the statute of limitations for minor car accident cases. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Traffic Safety Facts report, around 156,502 children were injured in US traffic crashes in 2022, and an estimated 429 minors are injured every day in traffic crashes across the nation.
If a minor is injured in a car accident, the statute of limitations may be tolled or paused until the minor reaches the age of 18. It’s essential to consult with a Bethlehem car accident lawyer to understand if any exceptions apply to your specific case.
The Importance of Legal Help With Your Personal Injury Claim
Navigating the legal process after a car accident can be overwhelming, especially with insurance companies. That’s where legal help becomes necessary. Having a Bethlehem car accident lawyer on your side can provide the expertise and guidance you need during this challenging time.
They understand the laws and regulations concerning car accident lawsuits in Bethlehem, PA, and can protect your rights. A lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, gather the necessary evidence to strengthen your case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
A study from Martindale-Nolo Research and Lawyers.com found that 91% of the latter organization’s readers who opted for legal representation received compensation, compared to just 51% of those who chose to represent their own cases. This study also found that, even after the participants deducted their lawyers’ contingency fees from their settlements, their net compensation was still around three times higher than that received by unrepresented readers.
With legal help, you can navigate the complexities of the legal process and have peace of mind knowing someone is advocating for your best interests. Munley Law has over 60 years of experience fighting for our clients’ rights, and we’re confident we have the best legal team for your case.
Munley Law: Helping Car Accident Victims Since 1959
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies and the legal process. As an injured victim, it’s essential to understand your rights and the laws that apply to your case.
If you have been involved in a car accident in Bethlehem, PA, contact Munley Law for assistance with filing your claim in line with the statute of limitations. We will assist you with every part of the process to help you claim fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Reach out for a free consultation today.
Caroline Munley
Caroline Munley is an experienced and award-winning personal injury lawyer and is a board-certified workers’ compensation specialist. Since 2018, she’s been listed in Best Lawyers in America (Personal Injury Plaintiffs; Workers’ Compensation Claimants, Northeastern PA), Lawdragon, and has been a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer since 2022. A member of the International Society of Barristers, Caroline has won millions of dollars for car accident, commercial truck crash, and workplace injury victims.
