After an accident, life can change very fast. You may be hurt, scared, and unsure of what to do next. If you were hurt because someone else was careless, you may be able to get help through a personal injury claim. But New Hampshire law gives you only a certain amount of time to file this kind of claim. This time limit is called a statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you could lose your chance to ask for money to help with your medical bills, lost work time, and pain.
What the Statute of Limitations Means for You
The statute of limitations is a law that tells you how much time you have to start a personal injury lawsuit. In New Hampshire, the general rule is that you have three years to file a personal injury claim. That time usually starts from the date of the injury. So, if you were hurt in a car crash on January 1, you would have until January 1 three years later to file your case in court.
This rule applies to most types of personal injury cases. That includes car accidents, slip and fall injuries, dog bites, and more. It also covers claims for wrongful death, where a loved one has died because of someone else’s mistake. In those cases, the three-year clock starts from the date of the death.
Why the Deadline Matters So Much
Missing this deadline can be a big problem. If you try to file your case even one day after the deadline, the court will likely refuse to hear it. That means you would not be able to get any money for your injuries, even if you had a strong case. The person or company who caused your injury would not have to pay anything. That is why it is so important to know the deadline and take action early.
Sometimes, people do not file right away because they hope their injury will get better. Others may be unsure about whether they want to sue. But waiting too long can cost you your chance to get help. Even if you are not ready to go to court, talking to a lawyer early can help you understand your rights and make a plan.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Rule
Yes, there are a few times when the three-year clock may be paused or extended. This is called tolling. For example, if the person who was hurt is a child, the time limit may not start until they turn 18. That gives the child more time to bring a claim when they are old enough to do so themselves.
Another example is when the person who caused the injury leaves New Hampshire for a while after the accident. If they cannot be found, the clock may stop ticking during that time. There are also special rules for cases where the injury is not found right away. If you did not know you were injured, or you did not know it was caused by someone else’s actions, the time limit might not start until you find out.
These exceptions can be helpful, but they are not always easy to use. Courts look at them closely, and each case is different. That is why it is smart to get legal advice as soon as you can after the injury happens.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline
If you wait too long and miss the deadline, you will likely lose your chance to get money for your injury. Even if you have proof that someone else caused your harm, the court will probably say your claim is too late. Insurance companies also know these deadlines. If they see that your case is outside the time limit, they will not want to settle or pay anything.
This can be very upsetting, especially if you are still dealing with pain, bills, or time off work. The law is strict about this rule, and missing it can leave you with no options. That is why starting your case on time is so important.
What Steps to Take After You Are Hurt
After any injury, your health comes first. Get medical care as soon as possible, and follow your doctor’s advice. Make sure to keep records of your treatment and how the injury affects your life. If you can, take pictures of the accident scene and get contact information from any witnesses. These details can help support your claim.
Next, do not wait too long to get legal advice. Even if you are not sure if you want to sue, a lawyer can explain your rights and help you protect your claim. They can also deal with insurance companies and make sure all the paperwork is done on time. Getting help early can make your case stronger and give you peace of mind.
Different Kinds of Personal Injury Cases Have the Same Time Limit
In New Hampshire, the three-year rule covers many types of injuries. That includes accidents on the road, in stores or public places, or even at someone’s home. It also covers injuries from dangerous products or faulty machines. If a person or business failed to act with care, and you were hurt because of it, this rule probably applies.
Even though the time limit is usually the same, every case is different. Some injuries may heal quickly, while others take months or years to fully understand. Some people may be hurt in more than one way, like physically, emotionally, and financially. That is why it is important to take all parts of the case into account.
Insurance and Time Limits
Most personal injury claims start by dealing with an insurance company. For example, if you were hurt in a car crash, the other driver’s insurance may be responsible. But even though you may be talking with an insurance company, the three-year limit still applies. That means if talks with the insurance company take too long and you do not file a lawsuit in time, you could lose your chance.
Sometimes, insurance companies may seem helpful at first. But they do not always offer fair amounts or explain your full rights. That is another reason to talk with a lawyer early. They can help you figure out if a settlement is fair or if it makes more sense to go to court.
Why Acting Early Is Always Better
Waiting to start your claim can make things harder. Memories fade, witnesses move away, and important documents can get lost. It also takes time to prepare a case. Your lawyer may need to gather medical records, review police reports, or talk to experts. Starting early gives them more time to do this work well.
Filing a case early also shows that you are serious. It can help pressure insurance companies to settle fairly. And if your case needs to go to court, starting sooner helps make sure you are ready when the time comes.
Get the Legal Help You Need Today
If you have been hurt because of someone else’s carelessness, do not wait to get help. Knowing the answer to the question How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in New Hampshire is the first step in protecting your rights. You usually only have three years, and the clock starts ticking from the day you were hurt. Waiting too long can mean losing your chance to get the help and money you deserve.
The legal team at Tenn And Tenn, PA is here to guide you through every step. We understand how hard it can be after an injury, and we are ready to listen, explain your options, and help you move forward. Contact us today to set up a free consultation. Let’s make sure your voice is heard before time runs out.