Law Office of Michael J. Tremoulis | March 25, 2025 | Personal Injury
When filing a personal injury lawsuit in Ohio, understanding the statute of limitations is crucial. The statute of limitations sets a deadline for legal action. If you don’t file in time, you might lose your chance to seek compensation. Knowing the specific deadline for your case helps ensure you don’t miss this important window.
Ohio’s Personal Injury Statute of Limitations
In Ohio, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the injury. If someone else’s carelessness hurt you in an accident, you need to file your lawsuit within two years. If you wait too long, the court might throw out your case.
This deadline applies to various types of personal injury claims, including:
- Car accidents: If you are involved in a car accident, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file your personal injury claim.
- Premises liability: For accidents occurring on someone else’s property, the statute of limitations starts to run from the date of the injury.
- Medical malpractice: In these cases, the injured person usually starts the one-year period when they find out about the injury.
- Product liability cases: Injuries from defective products also have a two-year limit.
- Workplace injuries: If your injury is not covered by workers’ compensation, the standard time limit for personal injury lawsuits applies.
It is important to note that each of these cases can involve unique circumstances that may affect the filing deadline.
Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations in Ohio
For wrongful death claims, you have two years to file. The countdown begins on the date of the person’s death, not when the accident happened. This gives the family time to sue the responsible party for damages from their loss. This statute of limitations is a strict deadline. If the lawsuit is not filed within two years, you may lose the chance for compensation.
Exceptions to the Ohio Statute of Limitations
While you must file most personal injury cases within two years, certain exceptions may extend or shorten the deadline.
Discovery Rule
The statute of limitations may start when the injured party discovers the injury. It can also begin when they reasonably should have noticed it. This is particularly important in cases involving medical malpractice or hidden injuries.
Minor Plaintiffs
If a minor gets hurt, the statute of limitations may stop until they are 18. This means they can file a claim until their 20th birthday. This ensures that minors are not unfairly disadvantaged by time constraints.
Defendant’s Absence
If the at-fault party leaves Ohio, the statute of limitations may be extended. This lasts until they come back to the state. This provides some relief to plaintiffs in situations where the defendant evades legal action.
Understanding these exceptions is crucial for ensuring that you do not lose the ability to file a lawsuit due to factors beyond your control.
Why the Statute of Limitations Matters
Failing to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations can have serious consequences, including:
- Losing the ability to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Giving insurance companies leverage to deny or delay your claim.
- Preventing you from holding the responsible party accountable for their actions.
It is vital to take action within the prescribed time frame to avoid these potential consequences. Talk to an experienced attorney early. This way, you can file your case on time. It gives you the best chance to get the compensation you deserve.
Speak With an Ohio Personal Injury Lawyer for Help Complying With Deadlines
If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, consulting with an experienced Ohio personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options. A lawyer can evaluate your case, ensure you meet all filing deadlines, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Time is of the essence when it comes to personal injury claims. If you believe you have a case, do not wait. Seek legal guidance as soon as possible to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you are entitled to.
Contact the Lima Personal Injury Lawyer of the Law Office of Michael J. Tremoulis for Help Today
If you were injured in an accident in Lima, and need legal help, contact our personal injury lawyer at the Law Office of Michael J. Tremoulis to schedule a free case review today.
We proudly serve Allen County and the surrounding areas.
Law Office of Michael J. Tremoulis Lima
540 W Market St
Lima, OH 45801
(419) 404-4444
