The Statute of Limitations for Georgia Slip and Fall Claims Explained
How long do I have to file a slip and fall claim in Georgia?
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident in Georgia, it is imperative that you take timely action to protect your legal rights. All states have a statute of limitations in place which limits the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit after an accident. Failure to file within the applicable statute of limitations can result in the complete loss of your right to recover compensation from the negligent person or entity that injured you. Our Georgia slip and fall accident lawyers discuss how long you have to file a slip and fall claim in the state below.
The Statute of Limitations in Georgia
Under Georgia Code section 9-3-33, actions for injuries to a person must be filed within two years after the right of action accrues. Translated into layman’s terms, the statute states that after an accident, such as a slip and fall, your injury lawsuit must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. When the slip and fall accident results in death, the family of the deceased slip and fall accident victim must file the wrongful death lawsuit within two years, starting from the date of the victim’s death, which may not be the same date as the accident.
Exceptions do exist to this general two-year rule. For instance, if the accident occurred on government owned property, which may include some roads and sidewalks, the statute of limitations may be different. Further, in some cases the statute of limitations clock may toll, or pause, allowing you more time to file the action. Laws concerning tolling are complex and will require careful review by your personal injury attorney.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Failure to take prompt action could result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. Slip and fall accidents can lead to tremendous losses, so protect your legal rights today.
Posted in: Slip & Fall