In Nevada, injured victims usually have a strict timeline to file a personal injury claim. This deadline can impact whether a claim is accepted in court. At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we help individuals understand these time limits and file claims within the required timeframe. Whether it’s a car accident, a fall, or another injury caused by someone else, knowing how long you have to take action is crucial.
Many assume they have time to wait for most personal injury cases, but if the window closes, there’s often no second chance. In most cases, Nevada law gives injured individuals two years to file a claim. That period begins on the date of injury or the date the injury was first discovered. Missing that date can mean your case is dismissed, even if it’s strong.
That’s why our firm helps clients move quickly, staying ahead of necessary legal steps in personal injury cases. If you’re unsure whether you still have time, consult with our personal injury lawyers for assistance. Don’t wait to learn that it’s too late.
Nevada’s Two-Year Deadline for Personal Injury Claims
Nevada law allows most people two years to file a personal injury claim. This rule is found in the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) Section 11.190. It applies to injuries resulting from car accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, medical malpractice, and other situations where the actions of one person cause harm. The two-year window usually begins on the date of the incident. However, in some Nevada personal injury cases, the injury may not be evident until later.
In such cases, the “discovery rule” may apply, which can delay the start of the two-year period. Even with this rule, the filing window doesn’t stay open forever. Waiting too long, even for a few days, can result in a claim being denied. Courts tend to stick closely to the rules on deadlines.
If you’re injured and unsure when your clock started, don’t guess. Our personal injury attorneys at THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys look at the full timeline, helping clients file before it’s too late. We make sure the two-year deadline is met and no time is lost in the process.
Special Situations That Can Affect the Deadline
Personal injury lawsuit varies. There are situations where the normal two-year deadline does not apply. One of the most common is when the injured person is a minor. In Nevada, the law allows children to wait until they turn 18 before the two-year countdown begins. That means a 10-year-old who’s hurt in an accident could file a claim until age 20.
Another example is when a person is mentally unable to act due to injury or illness. The deadline may be delayed until they are able to make decisions again. Cases involving government agencies are different, too. If someone is hurt by a city vehicle or on public property, they may need to file a notice within six months before initiating a lawsuit.
These rules are strict and can be easily overlooked. THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys understands these exceptions and helps clients stay within all required deadlines. Our personal injury lawyers examine every detail to prevent delays and ensure claims receive the proper review in court.
Personal Injury Claims Involving Government Entities in Nevada
Claims against government agencies in Nevada follow different rules. If you were injured by a government employee or on public property, the process has an added step. Before you can file a lawsuit, you may need to submit a formal “notice of claim” within six months of the incident. This applies to injuries involving:
- City buses
- Government vehicles
- School property
- Other public services
After the notice is filed, the regular two-year limit still applies to file the actual claim. But the early notice requirement shortens the timeline and often catches people off guard. The rules around these claims are strict. Even small errors in the notice can cause delays or denials.
At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we take these time-sensitive steps seriously. If we determine that a government entity may be involved in your case, we act quickly to send proper notices and preserve your right to compensation. Government-related cases are not handled the same as regular injury claims, so it’s important to have help from people who know the difference.
Why Filing On Time Is So Important in Nevada
Filing on time directly affects your ability to seek compensation for injuries. Courts in Nevada almost always dismiss claims that come in after the two-year mark. Even if your injuries are serious or clear, missing the deadline can close the door to recovery. Insurance companies also know the law. If they see you waited too long, they may deny coverage, knowing that your legal options are gone.
Filing early gives your case strength. It shows that you’re serious, organized, and that your injuries are real. Waiting, even if unintentional, weakens your position. It may also make it more difficult to locate witnesses, obtain medical records, or preserve physical evidence.
That’s why THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys helps clients act fast. We don’t rush your case, but we make sure it doesn’t fall behind. Taking the proper steps early on protects your chance to be heard and helps you achieve the results you deserve.
Types of Personal Injury Claims Available for Accident Victims
Accident victims in Nevada have several types of personal injury claims they can file, depending on how the injury occurred. Each type falls under civil cases, where the injured party seeks compensation for harm caused by someone else’s actions or negligence. Here’s a clear look at the common personal injury cases.
1. Car Accidents
Car accidents are one of the most common reasons people file a personal injury claim. If another driver was careless, you may be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. In most personal injury lawsuits, insurance companies play a major role in the legal process.
2. Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice cases arise when healthcare providers, including doctors, make mistakes that result in harm to patients. A medical malpractice claim may involve birth defects, surgical errors, or failure to diagnose. These cases often rely on detailed medical records and testimony. In Nevada, the statute of limitations for medical malpractice is typically one year from when the injury is discovered.
3. Slip and Fall Accidents
Property owners have a duty to maintain a safe environment. If you slipped and fell due to a wet floor or poor lighting, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit. These cases fall under the category of premises liability and often involve property inspections, photographs, and witness reports.
4. Product Liability
When a product causes harm due to poor design or manufacturing, injured victims may file a claim against the company. Product liability claims apply to items like faulty car parts, unsafe toys, or dangerous medications. These cases typically involve both the manufacturer and, in some instances, a government agency.
5. Wrongful Death
If a loved one dies due to someone else’s actions, surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim. These claims cover funeral expenses, lost financial support, and emotional pain. Under Nevada law, the two-year statute of limitations typically applies from the date of death.
6. Workers’ Compensation Claims
If the injury occurred on the job, the injured party may be eligible for workers’ compensation coverage. This type of claim does not require proving fault. It helps pay for medical bills and lost wages. In Nevada, filing must be done within specific time limits based on when the injury was reported.
7. Dog Bites
In certain circumstances, dog owners can be held responsible if their pet bites someone. These personal injury cases may hinge on where the bite happened and the dog’s past behavior.
8. Brain Injuries and Birth Defects
Severe injuries like brain damage or birth defects can change a person’s life forever. A personal injury lawyer can help victims and families file lawsuits related to long-term care, lost income, and other damages.
What Happens If You File Your Personal Injury Claim Late in Nevada
Filing a personal injury claim after the deadline almost always leads to dismissal. Nevada courts follow strict timelines, and missing the two-year limit means your case won’t be heard. This applies regardless of the severity of your injuries or the apparent clarity of the facts.
Insurance companies will also reject claims that come in too late. Once the statute of limitations expires, insurers are no longer legally required to pay. Even trying to negotiate a settlement becomes harder, as there’s no pressure from a possible lawsuit.
Sometimes people wait because they’re hoping to recover or don’t realize how bad their injury is. Others try to handle things alone and only contact a lawyer when it’s too late. That’s why it’s better to act early, even if you’re not sure you want to file a lawsuit. At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we help clients take the right steps before time runs out. We don’t wait until it’s close to the deadline.
Important Tips to Make Sure You Don’t Miss the Statute of Limitations for Your Personal Injury Lawsuit
To protect your personal injury claim, timing is everything. Here are some steps to make sure you file on time:
- Mark the Date: Write down when the injury happened or when you discovered it.
- Set Reminders: Use calendar alerts to remind you six months, three months, and one month before the two-year mark.
- Talk to a Lawyer Early: You don’t need to wait until you’re “ready.” A brief conversation can help you understand your current situation.
- Gather Records: Save medical bills, accident reports, photos, and communication with insurance.
- Follow Medical Advice: Regularly consulting a doctor helps document the injury timeline.
- Don’t Delay Claims: Waiting for pain to “go away” often backfires. Acting early protects your right to file.
Don’t Wait to Find Out If You Still Have Time to File. Call THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys Today.
Missing the Nevada statute of limitations costs you the right to seek compensation, no matter how strong your case is. That’s why it’s important to act early. Filing on time helps protect your rights and keeps options open. At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we help people file on time, avoid mistakes, and stay ahead of every legal deadline. We’ve worked with clients across Nevada who didn’t know how close they were to losing their chance, and helped them take action before it was too late.
If you were injured and don’t know how much time you have left, call us at (702) 478-2266 or schedule a free initial consultation online.
