In most cases, you have three years from the date of an accident to make a claim i.e. court proceedings must be issued within this period. This is called the limitation Period. If court proceedings are not started within this period, then you cannot proceed with your case i.e. you are statute barred. There are exceptions to this rule, but only in very specific and limited circumstances.
Also, certain cases are subject to shorter Limitation Periods than 3 years, for example criminal injuries cases and accidents which happened outside of the UK, including on planes and boats.
Cases involving children are subject to different Limitation rules. The three year Limitation Period for childrens’ cases runs from their 18th birthday.
Therefore, please don’t delay if you wish to pursue your case for compensation and do not wait until shortly before the end of the Limitation Period before contacting a solicitor as the case must be fully investigated and important steps taken before court proceedings can be issued.
It is always better to contact a solicitor as soon as possible following your accident. Please call us to discuss your accident and we can discuss the time limits that apply to your case.
