You and the Law in Ohio
By Murray D. Bilfield, Esq.
I am pleased and grateful for the opportunity to provide La Prensa’s readers with helpful information on various legal problems. Questions concerning any of the subjects covered can be directed to me by telephone, at 1-800-ABOGADO. Please note that this column contains general legal information and is not intended to provide solutions to specific cases. Every case is different and requires individual review by an attorney of your own choosing, licensed in your state.
Time limitations for pursuing personal injury and other money damage claims
All claims for money damages in Ohio and other states, whether for personal injuries or another type of claim, have a specific time limitation called a “STATUTE OF LIMITATION.” The importance of that statute is that if your claim or case is not filed in the appropriate state or federal court, within the time limitation specified for that claim, the opportunity to pursue money damages is lost forever.
The time limitations vary between different types of claims, and from state to state. For example, in Ohio, an auto or truck collision case, caused by negligence, with bodily injury and/or property damage, has a two year statute of limitations, while a medical malpractice case against an Ohio doctor or an Ohio hospital may be as short as one year from the last date of treatment.
Correspondingly, a death from an injury occurring in Ohio, due to negligence, has an absolute time limitation of two years from date of death. Certain intentional acts, such as assault, slander or libel have a one year statute of limitations.
If you or a member of your family believe that you have a claim for money damages, such as a personal injury case, please consult an attorney immediately to determine the time limitation for your injury claim. Please do not wait. You may lose your right to compensation.
Editor’s Note: Murray D. Bilfield is the managing partner of the Cleveland, Ohio law firm of Bilfield & Associates, LLC. Co., L.P.A. Specific questions may be directed to him at (216) 696-LAWS (5297).
Independence, OH 44131-2343
Phone: 216-696-LAWS (5297)216-696-LAWS (5297) | Fax: 216-573-9725