Understanding Nevada’s Two Year Statute of Limitations for Injury Claims
Nevada law places strict deadlines on filing personal injury lawsuits. These deadlines are known as statutes of limitations. If an injured person misses the deadline, the court will likely dismiss the case, and the injured party may lose the right to recover compensation entirely.
In most Nevada personal injury cases, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the injury. This rule is found in Nevada Revised Statutes section 11.190(4)(e), which applies to actions for personal injuries caused by another person’s negligence. This two year window applies to many types of injury claims, including car accidents, slip and falls, and other negligence related incidents.
When the Clock Starts Running
In many cases, the statute of limitations begins running on the date the injury occurred. For example, if someone is injured in a car accident on June 1, 2024, they typically have until June 1, 2026 to file a lawsuit in court.
However, there are situations where the deadline may begin later. This is sometimes called the discovery rule. Under this rule, the statute of limitations may start when the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered. This often applies in cases involving medical malpractice or injuries that were not immediately apparent. Ultimately, even with exceptions, injured individuals should assume the deadline begins on the date of the accident and act quickly to protect their legal rights.
Why the Statute of Limitations Matters
The statute of limitations exists to ensure that claims are brought while evidence is still available and witnesses can still remember what happened. Waiting too long can make it difficult to gather medical records, accident reports, and witness statements. Failing to file a claim before the deadline can have serious consequences, including:
- Losing the right to file a lawsuit
- Losing leverage in settlement negotiations
- Having important evidence disappear over time
- Witnesses forgetting key details
Because of these risks, it is important for injured individuals to understand how quickly the deadline can approach.
Exceptions to the Two Year Deadline
Although two years is the general rule, Nevada law does provide some exceptions. For example, if the injured person is a minor, the statute of limitations may be paused until the minor turns eighteen. In some cases involving fraud or concealed injuries, the deadline may also be extended.
Claims against government entities may have different notice requirements and shorter deadlines, so these cases often require faster action. Understanding which deadline applies is critical because filing even one day late can prevent a case from moving forward.
Contact Us Today for Legal Guidance
Nevada’s two year statute of limitations for personal injury claims is a strict deadline that can determine whether an injured person can pursue compensation. Acting quickly after an injury helps preserve evidence and ensures compliance with Nevada law. Understanding the filing deadline is one of the most important steps in protecting a personal injury claim.
If you were injured and have questions about filing deadlines, the Las Vegas personal injury attorneys at our office can help evaluate your situation and explain your legal options. Contact Mainor Ellis Injury Lawyers to discuss your case and protect your rights before the deadline expires.
Source:
leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-011.html#NRS011Sec190
