How Long Do I Have?

There are time limits on the amount of time that you can wait before either settling your claim or starting legal proceedings. These are set out in the following table:

  • *    You can make an application for an extension of time for these claims for up to 6 years.
  • **   You can make an application for an extension of time for these claims for up to 3 years.
  • *** exceptions apply to this time period in some cases and so you ought to consult us immediately for advice

It is important that you obtain legal advice from a motor vehicle accident lawyer to safeguard your interests in relation to common law damages time limits.

 Injures resulting from traffic accident Accident before 15 November 2005 Accidents after 15 November 2005
Adults Within 6 years of accident Within 3 years of accident***
Children 0 to 15 years at time of accident Within 6 years of their 18th birthday Within 6 years of accident***
Children 15 to 18 years at time of accident Within 6 years of their 18th birthday Before their 21st birthday***
Loss of Dependency Claim Within 1 year of the death of your loved one* Within 1 year of the death of your loved one**

About the author

Next blog post