Understanding Nevada’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases.

Many of my clients ask me what the statute of limitations is in Nevada and whether it affects their case. The short answers are: 

1. “Nevada’s statute of limitations is normally two years from date of your injury.” and…
2. “Yes, it affects your case.”

In this post, I will explain Nevada’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases.  Learn why is it important to promptly consult with a personal injury lawyer to protect your rights. 

First, a little foundation.

What is a personal injury case?

A personal injury case in Nevada involves legal disputes where individuals (plaintiffs) seek compensation or “damages” from a liable party (defendants).  These injuries are usually caused by another party’s negligence, intentional actions, or failures to act. Common examples of personal injury cases are: car accidents, slip and fall accidents, motorcycle accidents, injuries at hotels and casinos, and any other injury cases involving some type of injury resulting from negligence. The Law Office of Kevin R. Hansen in Las Vegas has decades of experience in personal injury law and offers free case evaluations to help injured individuals understand their legal options. Contact us today for personalized representation and to protect your rights in seeking the compensation you deserve.

When it comes to personal injury cases, it’s essential to be aware of the statute of limitations in your state. In Nevada, as in any other jurisdiction, there are specific time limits within which you must file a personal injury claim. Understanding Nevada’s statute of limitations is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring you have a fair chance at obtaining the compensation you deserve.

In Nevada, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years. This means that you have two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a lawsuit in court. If you fail to initiate legal proceedings within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries. It’s important to note that the clock starts ticking from the date the injury occurred or the accident was discovered, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Exceptions to Nevada’s Two-Year Statute of Limitations:

While the general statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Nevada is two years, there are a few exceptions that may alter the timeline. It’s crucial to consult with a personal injury lawyer to determine the applicable statute of limitations in your specific situation. 

Here are some exceptions worth noting:

Medical Malpractice: If the personal injury case involves medical malpractice, the statute of limitations is typically one year from the date of the injury. 

Minors: If the injured party is a minor (under the age of 18), the statute of limitations may be tolled, meaning the clock starts running when the minor turns 18 years old. However, any delay can prejudice the minor’s claim, meaning evidence can disappear, witnesses move away, and it can be a great deal harder to prove a case when action is delayed.

Government Entities: If the responsible party is a government entity, such as a municipal government or state agency, additional notice requirements and shorter timeframes may apply. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney to ensure compliance with these specific regulations.

As you can see, it’s important to get legal advice before you lose the right to pursue a claim for your personal injury.