How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim
When you’re injured in an accident, your focus is often on healing—not legal deadlines. But in New Hampshire, you typically have just three years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This legal deadline is known as the statute of limitations.
It is important to know that this is the deadline in most types of cases but there are some exceptions for which the deadline might be shorter. In specific types of cases there may be other types of deadlines and time limits to keep in mind. Therefore, if you have a potential case, do not delay in seeking legal advise.
Missing that deadline means losing your right to seek compensation—even if your case is strong. The courts are strict about this rule. If you try to file after the statute of limitations period has passed, the court will dismiss the case. That’s why acting quickly is so important.
There are some exceptions to the rule, but they’re rare. For example, if the injury victim is a minor, the clock doesn’t start ticking until they turn 18. In certain cases involving medical malpractice or injuries that weren’t immediately discovered, you might have more time—but don’t count on it.
Regardless of the exact statute of limitations, the earlier you speak with a lawyer, the better. Evidence fades, witnesses forget details, and paperwork can get lost. If you contact an attorney right away, they can start preserving evidence and building a case. This can include gathering medical records, getting expert opinions, and negotiating with insurance companies.
Insurance companies aren’t on your side. Their goal is to pay as little as possible. If you wait too long to file a claim, you might end up at a disadvantage during negotiations. Even if your case never goes to court, the statute of limitations still matters—because the threat of a lawsuit is often what motivates insurers to settle fairly.
At Cohen and Winters, we take the time to learn every detail of your situation. No two injuries are exactly the same, and your case deserves personalized attention. Whether you were in a car crash, hurt on someone else’s property, or injured by a defective product, we’re here to help.
We understand that this process can feel overwhelming. You’re dealing with pain, doctor’s visits, and time off work. You shouldn’t also have to worry about missing deadlines or navigating legal red tape alone. That’s where we come in.
When you call us, you won’t get passed around or left waiting. We pride ourselves on being responsive and approachable. Our job is to give you clear answers and a plan of action.
Not sure if you even have a case? That’s okay. Consultations with Cohen and Winters are free, and we’ll help you figure out your options. If we take your case, you don’t pay us unless we win. That’s our promise.
So if you’ve been injured and have questions, don’t wait. The clock might already be ticking. Reach out today and let’s talk about what’s next. We’re proud to serve people across New Hampshire, and we’re ready to stand in your corner.