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When somebody is injured due to the negligence of another person or entity, they typically can file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it is important to note that there are time limits on these types of cases, known as “statutes of limitations.” In Tennessee, these statutes set a deadline for when a lawsuit must be filed, depending on the type of case.
Tennessee's Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases
In Tennessee, the statute of limitations is generally one year from the date of the injury for most personal injury cases. This means that if you are injured due to the negligence of another person or entity, you have one year from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. If you do not file a lawsuit within this time frame, your case will likely be dismissed, and you will not be able to recover damages for your injury. It is important to note that there are some exceptions to this rule, such as for medical malpractice cases, which have a statute of limitations one year from the injury's discovery date.
Why Time Limits Are Important
The purpose of time limits on personal injury cases is to ensure that cases are resolved in a timely manner. Waiting too long to file a lawsuit can make it more difficult to gather evidence and witnesses, making it harder to prove your case in court. Additionally, if a case is allowed to linger for too long, it can financially burden both parties involved. Finally, time limits encourage injured parties to take action quickly after an injury occurs, which helps to keep the legal process moving smoothly.
What Happens If You Miss the Statute of Limitations
If you miss the statute of limitations for your personal injury case, you will likely be unable to recover damages for your injury. The case will be dismissed, and you will have lost your opportunity for justice. It is important to speak with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your injury to ensure that your case is filed within the appropriate time frame.
What to Do If You Are Injured
If you are injured due to the actions of another person or entity, your priority should be to seek medical attention. After receiving appropriate care, you must contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case. Your attorney can help you understand the statute of limitations for your case and ensure that you file within the appropriate time frame.
Personal Injury Lawyers in Chattanooga
If you have been injured due to someone else's negligence, don't delay. Contact The Hamilton Firm LLC today to schedule a consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (423) 454-3288 for a free consultation.