What is a Statute of Limitations?
A Statute of Limitations is a law that dictates the timeframe in which a legal action must be pursued. As described by Cornell Law School’s Legal Information Institute, a statute of limitations is a law that “bars claims after a certain period of time passes after an injury.” After the time period dictated by a statute of limitations has passed, and no legal action has been taken following an injury or offense, no future legal action can be pursued.
The length of a statute of limitations varies by jurisdiction and claim. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations is two years for personal injury cases, unless the injury happened to someone who was then a minor. In that case, they would have up to two years after their 18th birthday to file a claim. The beginning of the time period in a statute of limitations in a personal injury case typically begins at the discovery of the injury. When the specified time period has passed, cases are almost always dismissed.
Statutes of limitations are meant to encourage timely action by plaintiffs. This keeps potential evidence reliable, and protects defendants from being subjected to unfair proceedings. Statutes of limitations are relevant for both civil and criminal law.
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How Old Do You Have to Be to Bring a Personal Injury Case?
To file a personal injury lawsuit independently, you must be 18 years old in most states. However, if you’re under 18, your parents or legal guardians can file a claim on your behalf. The statute of limitations is typically paused until you reach 18, at which point you have the standard period (usually 1-3 years, depending on your state) to file. While minors can’t file directly, there’s no minimum age limit for having a case brought on your behalf – parents can pursue claims for injuries that occur at any age, from birth onward.
Personal Injury Cases and the Protections in Place for Minors
When a child is injured due to someone else’s negligence, understanding the legal process helps protect their rights and secure their future. While adults can immediately file lawsuits, the rules are different—but not more difficult—when minors are involved.
Whether your child has suffered a brain injury from a car accident, […]
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Defective Medical Device Attorney
A medical device is meant to support your health. Unfortunately, defective medical devices result in numerous injuries and deaths throughout the U.S. every year.
Has a medical device defect left you or a loved one with injuries? Compensation may be available. Learn more by reviewing your case with a defective medical device lawyer. At Munley Law, our team is on hand to fight for the compensation you deserve. Get started by contacting our product liability lawyers today for a free consultation.
Types of Defective Medical Device Cases We Handle
Defective medical devices can come in many forms. The following are a few examples of common medical device defects:
- Hip implant defects: A defective hip implant could become dislocated, cause injury due to metal parts, cause pain, cause infection, and other such issues.
- Surgical mesh defects: There are many ways a defective surgical mesh can cause injury, […]
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Tire Defect Attorney
Tire defects can render an otherwise safe vehicle too dangerous to drive. Unfortunately, it’s not always immediately clear when a tire is defective. Tire failures often strike without advanced warning.
Have you been hurt in a tire blowout or other tire-related accident? Compensation for your medical bills and related losses may be available.
Speak with an experienced tire defect lawyer for more information about your case. At Munley Law, serving the area for decades, we can offer the representation you need when facing off against large insurers and tire makers. Learn more by contacting our product liability attorneys today for a free consultation.
Understanding Tire Defects and Their Dangers
Tire defects come in several forms, including:
- Tread separation
- Punctures
- Damaged sidewall
- Cracks
Defective tires can cause accidents by causing loss of vehicle control. […]
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Philadelphia Truck Accident Lawyer
Dealing with the aftermath of an accident with a truck in Philadelphia can be frustrating, stressful, and devastating. Faced with medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages, the road to recovery may seem long and hard for both you and your family. You need an experienced Philadelphia truck accident lawyer to help you receive the maximum amount of accident compensation for your losses so you and your family can start the healing process.
Trucking accidents are usually more challenging to navigate on your own. Multiple parties may be responsible for your truck accident injuries, and the insurance company will try to prevent you from receiving a fair settlement offer. Our lawyers at Munley Law are here to help if you are involved in a commercial truck accident.
What a Philadelphia Truck Accident Lawyers Can Do For You
A truck accident lawyer in Philadelphia is a personal injury attorney who specializes in helping injury victims following truck collisions with a large truck, […]
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Erie Truck Accident Lawyer
Commercial truck accidents can cause unimaginable damage due to the average size and weight of commercial trucks—often many, many times larger than other vehicles. Too many Erie, Pennsylvania, drivers are harmed by negligent truckers and trucking companies. If you or a loved one have sustained injuries in a trucking accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal representation from an Erie truck accident lawyer at Munley Law. Working with our legal team is your best path forward as you seek justice and fair compensation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can protect your interests.
What Does an Erie Truck Accident Lawyer Do?
If you have sustained serious injuries in a truck accident, your head might be swimming with questions: how will I pay for my medical bills? Where does the insurance company come in? Do I need a lawyer? […]
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