As of July 1, 2024, Louisiana residents who’ve suffered personal injuries or other damages now have more time to seek justice. A recent change in the law has doubled the statute of limitations for most personal injury and tort claims from one year to two years. This means you now have two full years from the date of your injury or damage to file a lawsuit.
Key Points to Remember
- Applies to Most Tort Claims: This new two-year statute of limitations applies to the majority of tort claims, including those arising from car accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice, and more.
- Exception for Products Liability: The one exception is product liability claims (injuries caused by defective products), which still have a one-year statute of limitations.
- Prospective Application: The new law only applies to injuries or damages that occur on or after July 1, 2024. If your injury happened before this date, the old one-year rule likely still applies.
- Property Damage: For damage to immovable property (like a house or land), the two-year clock starts ticking on the day the owner knew or should have known about the damage.
- Minors and Interdicts: In cases involving permanent disability, the statute of limitations doesn’t apply to minors or people under interdiction (legal guardianship). They have more time to file a claim.
- Fatal Injuries: If the injuries are fatal, the two-year period begins on the date of death, not the date of the accident.
What Does This Mean for You?
This change in the law is good news for injury victims in Louisiana. It gives you:
- More Time to Heal: You now have additional time to focus on your physical and emotional recovery before dealing with the complexities of a lawsuit.
- More Time to Investigate: A longer statute of limitations gives your attorney more time to thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong claim.
- Less Stress and Pressure: You’ll no longer feel the same rush to file a lawsuit within one year, which can be especially difficult when dealing with serious injuries.
Consult an Attorney
If you’ve been injured in an accident, it’s crucial to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. They can explain how the new statute of limitations applies to your case and help you navigate the legal process.
Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information about the new Louisiana statute of limitations. It’s not intended as legal advice. If you have specific questions about your case, consult with a qualified attorney.
Remember, we’re here to help. Contact our Louisiana personal injury law firm today for a free consultation.
