How Long After A Dog Bite Do I Have To File A Dog Bite Lawsuit?
As is the case in many aspects of the law, every state differs somewhat on how their laws define the amount of time a person has to file a dog bite lawsuit. But they all have one thing in common, for sure: the time is limited. There are several possible exceptions in the law of each state that gives some outs or flexibility in the statute of limitations.
Since there are certain possible exceptions to your state’s statute of limitations on filing a dog bite lawsuit, that makes it all the more important to keep meticulous records of your case - insurance paperwork and other documentation of communications - in order to be able to bring up evidence at a moment’s notice that may support your case for an extension. It can also give you the extra time to choose a top-notch dog bite attorney to handle your case.
There is no distinction between a minor or adult’s dog bite lawsuit - the time period is the same. There’s also another very important aspect of a dog bite lawsuit that anyone filing one will have to deal with: details of the evidence.The specific details surrounding your case can be an extremely lengthy and complicated process, especially without professional legal assistance from an experienced dog bite attorney.
There is one exception in the statute of limitations that doesn’t work in the plaintiff’s favor. If the person or people responsible for the the dog bite incident are employees of the government or the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), you are limited to 60 days to make a claim file a lawsuit. Remember, these limitations aren’t met just by filing an insurance claim. You will need to file the lawsuit in the required time as well. This is all the more reason to hire a dog bite attorney to expedite the legal process.
Generally speaking, most cases involving parties not associated with the the government require you to file your claim against the liable party within one year. While a year seems like ample time, and it is for people who act quickly, you should seek a dog bite attorney as soon as you can, since the preliminary process and paperwork involved in making a claim can take significant time.
There’s another reason to act quickly. By filing your lawsuit promptly, it helps make your claims more credible. People who wait until the last minute may give the appearance of someone not particularly affected by their attack, or even as an opportunist who didn’t think about it until the last minute.
whocanisue.com can help you find the right dog bite attorney for your case!