If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, or any other personal injury incident in New Jersey, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. That may sound like plenty of time — but in reality, waiting can seriously hurt your case.
Even though the law allows two years, much must be done long before that deadline. Evidence needs to be preserved, medical treatment documented, insurance companies contacted, and legal filings prepared. These steps take time, and if you wait too long, you risk losing the chance to recover compensation altogether.
New Jersey’s statute of limitations is strict — miss it, and the court will almost always dismiss your case, no matter how serious your injuries are. That’s why acting early is one of the most important decisions you can make after an accident.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in New Jersey?
In most personal injury cases, New Jersey law gives you two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit.
This two-year period typically applies to:
- Car accidents
- Slip and fall injuries
- Dog bites
- Pedestrian accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace injuries (in certain third-party cases)
If you file after that two-year window closes, you’ll likely lose the right to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes — but they’re limited and specific:
- Minors: The two-year clock usually starts when the injured person turns 18.
- Discovery Rule: In cases like medical malpractice, the two-year period may begin when the injury was discovered (or should have been discovered).
- Claims Against Government Entities: If your injury involves a public entity — such as slipping on municipal property — you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident. That’s just three months, not two years.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to File
Even though you technically have two years, time can disappear quickly when building a case.
Here’s why acting fast matters:
- Evidence fades: Photos, videos, and witness memories can be lost or forgotten.
- Medical documentation takes time: Doctors’ records, test results, and expert opinions must be gathered and analyzed.
- Insurance companies delay: The longer you wait, the easier it is for insurers to deny or minimize your claim.
- Your attorney needs time to prepare: Building a strong, well-documented case takes weeks or months of work.
By contacting a lawyer soon after your accident, you give your legal team the time they need to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.
What to Do If You’ve Been Injured
If you think you may have a personal injury claim in New Jersey:
- Get medical attention immediately. Your health comes first, and timely care strengthens your case.
- Document everything. Take photos, note witnesses, and save receipts and reports.
- Speak with a personal injury attorney right away. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of a full recovery — physically and financially.
At Mennie Heizler Law Group, we offer free consultations, so there’s no cost to find out if you have a case.
Don’t Wait — Talk to an NJ Injury Lawyer Today
If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, don’t let time run out. New Jersey law gives you only two years to act — and every day counts.
Contact Mennie Heizler Law Group today to discuss your case and protect your right to compensation.
Call (732) 481-9100 to request your free consultation.
Your Right. Our Fight.