Have you been injured in a motorcycle accident in New Orleans? If so, you may not be thinking about filing a lawsuit; however, you need to take action to protect your right to receive compensation. Your first priority after being injured in a crash is to seek medical treatment for your injuries. In cases of traumatic injuries, the victim and the family may not think about filing a claim against the responsible driver for months.
However, it is crucial that action is taken to protect the right to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. If a victim waits too long to pursue a claim, the victim may be barred from recovering compensation under Louisiana’s Statute of Limitations.
What Is a Statute of Limitations?
Every state, including Louisiana, has enacted a statute of limitations to set deadlines for lawsuits in civil cases. The statutes set forth the time limits for plaintiffs to file lawsuits for various causes of action, including personal injury claims. The deadlines vary from state to state and vary by type of lawsuit. For example, the deadline to file a lawsuit for a car accident may be different from the deadline for filing a lawsuit for medical malpractice.
The one thing that is the same is the penalty for failing to file the lawsuit before the deadline. If you fail to file your lawsuit before the deadline set in the statute of limitations, you are barred from recovering compensation for your damages. In other words, you are responsible for paying all your medical bills and other expenses related to your injuries. You are not reimbursed for your lost wages, property damage, or other damages. Therefore, it is very important to seek the advice of a New Orleans motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible after your injury.
What Is the Deadline to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Louisiana?
The Louisiana Statute of Limitations sets the deadline for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit in this state. Under the law, you have one year from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a lawsuit against the person or party who is responsible for causing the crash. While there may be very limited exceptions to the rule, almost all cases fall within the one-year deadline to file a lawsuit.
Beware, if a government entity is involved, you may have a shorter time to file a notice of your intent to file a claim. Failing to file the notice may result in you losing your right to file a lawsuit. It is always in your best interest to contact our New Orleans motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible to discuss your accident and your legal options for filing a claim to recover compensation.
Call an Experienced NoLA Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Call Attorney Fred Olinde of The Olinde Firm to schedule a free legal consultation with a New Orleans motorcycle accident attorney. We want to help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, losses, and damages. You should not have to bear the financial burden caused by another driver’s reckless or negligent acts.
Contact our office at (504) 587-1440 or 1-800-587-1889 today to speak with an attorney. It does not cost you anything to get sound legal advice about your motorcycle accident claim.