Legal time limits apply to all personal injury claims. As a general rule, you must settle your claim, or start court proceedings, within 3 years of the date of the accident.
There are situations, however, where different limits will apply. For example, if you have suffered an industrial disease, then it may be difficult to pinpoint a date when your ‘injury’ occurred. With some conditions, such as occupational asthma, symptoms may take time to develop after the harmful exposure. In these situations, a 3-year time limit will run from the date when you knew, or ought to have had known, of the harm you had suffered. In most cases this will be when a doctor diagnoses you with your condition.
Other complicated rules can also change the time limit which applies. If you think you may have a personal injury claim, it is best to consult a solicitor for advice as soon as possible to avoid the risk of running out of time. If you are concerned about time limits or wish to know where you stand, please do not hesitate to contact us.
