Intro to Paralegal Studies Practice

What is the typical statute of limitations for filing a claim following an accident?

1. One year

2. Two years

3. Three years

4. Five years

The correct answer is: Two years

The typical statute of limitations for filing a claim following an accident is often two years, which aligns with many state laws regarding personal injury claims. This time frame generally starts from the date of the accident or the date when the injured party became aware of their injury. The rationale for this two-year period is to provide a balance between allowing individuals enough time to gather evidence and pursue legal action while also ensuring that cases are brought forward in a timely manner to prevent the deterioration of evidence and witness memory. In some jurisdictions, a two-year limit helps to maintain the efficiency of the legal system by encouraging prompt resolution of disputes. It's also important to note that while two years is common, specific cases, types of claims, or certain jurisdictions may follow different statutes of limitations. For instance, some claims might have a shorter or longer period based on the nature of the incident or local laws, but two years is widely recognized in personal injury contexts, including accidents.