When you’ve been injured in an accident—whether from a car crash, a slip and fall, or a dog bite—you may be entitled to compensation. But under Connecticut law, the time you have to file a personal injury case is limited. Missing the deadline could permanently bar you from recovering damages.
Connecticut’s Statute of Limitations
Connecticut law sets strict deadlines for filing personal injury lawsuits:
- General Personal Injury Claims – You have 2 years from the date of injury to file. (C.G.S. § 52-584)
- Medical Malpractice – You must file within 2 years of discovering the injury, but no later than 3 years from the negligent act. (C.G.S. § 52-584)
- Wrongful Death Claims – You must file within 2 years of the date of death, and no more than 5 years from the wrongful act. (C.G.S. § 52-555)
Failing to act within these timeframes usually means losing your right to pursue a claim.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are limited situations where the filing deadline may be extended:
- Minors – The statute may be delayed until the injured person turns 18.
- Mental Incapacity – The timeline may be tolled if the victim is legally incapacitated.
- Fraud or Concealment – If the defendant deliberately hides their wrongdoing, the deadline may start later.
These exceptions are narrow and fact-specific, so it’s critical to review your case with an attorney.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Even if you think you have plenty of time, delays can weaken your case. Acting promptly allows your lawyer to:
- Preserve vital evidence before it disappears
- Collect witness statements while memories are fresh
- Negotiate effectively with insurance companies
- Ensure all filings are submitted before deadlines expire
Waiting too long risks not only missing deadlines but also reducing your potential recovery.
Protect Yourself
If you or a loved one has been injured in Connecticut, don’t wait until it’s too late. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Call Hastings, Cohan & Walsh, LLP today at (203) 438-7450 for a free consultation, or visit catherinev2.sg-host.com to learn more about protecting your case.