LEGAL INSIGHTS

How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Connecticut?

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Connecticut, one of the most important things to know is how long you have to take legal action. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations—and missing it can mean losing your right to compensation.

Connecticut's Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in Connecticut. This includes injuries from car accidents, slip and falls, medical malpractice, and more. If you wait longer than two years, the court will likely dismiss your case.

Are There Exceptions?

Yes. Some situations may extend or shorten the deadline:

  • Discovery Rule: If you didn’t discover your injury right away (common in medical malpractice cases), the clock may start from the date of discovery.
  • Minors: If the injured person is under 18, the statute may be extended until they reach adulthood.
  • Government Claims: Claims against government entities often require you to file a notice of claim within 90 days.

Why Timing Matters

Evidence fades. Witness memories become less reliable. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Filing early also shows insurers and defendants that you’re serious about pursuing your rights.

Speak With a Connecticut Personal Injury Attorney

If you’ve been hurt in an accident, don’t delay. Alan Barry & Associates can evaluate your case, help you understand the timeline, and ensure no deadlines are missed. Contact us today for a free consultation.

What Is Pain and Suffering in a Personal Injury Case?

When you’re injured in an accident, you don’t just suffer physically—you endure emotional and psychological harm too. In personal injury law, these non-economic damages are often referred to as “pain and suffering.”

What Counts as Pain and Suffering?

Pain and suffering covers the physical pain from your injuries as well as mental anguish, anxiety, loss of enjoyment of life, depression, PTSD, and other emotional consequences. It also accounts for permanent disabilities or disfigurement.

How Is It Calculated?

Unlike medical bills, pain and suffering doesn’t come with a receipt. Courts and insurance companies use various methods:

  • Multiplier Method: Your economic damages (like medical bills) are multiplied by a number (usually 1.5 to 5) based on injury severity.
  • Per Diem Method: A daily amount is assigned to your suffering and multiplied by the number of days you’ve been affected.

Proving Pain and Suffering

Strong documentation helps:

  • Medical records
  • Psychiatric evaluations
  • Testimony from friends/family about how the injury changed your life
  • Your own pain journal

Why You Need Legal Help

Insurance companies often downplay pain and suffering. At Alan Barry & Associates, we know how to build compelling evidence and fight for full compensation. Don’t let your suffering be minimized—contact us today.

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