After you suffer an injury, you may feel more like recovering in the safety of your home than embarking on a legal journey. However, there is only a certain time frame where you are allowed to file a lawsuit. If you put the task off for too long, even a personal injury attorney won’t be able to get you the compensation you need and deserve. This guide offers a closer look at how Montana's statute of limitations works for these types of incidents.

How Long Do You Have to File a Lawsuit?

In the state of Montana, injured parties can wait up to three years before filing a personal injury lawsuit. If you try to do so after the deadline, your claim may be refused by the court. However, if the negligent party was a state-level employee or agency, you have to file much faster. These claims must be submitted through Montana’s Department of Risk Management and Tort Defense within 20 days of the event. 

A case involving minors under 18 years old is a notable exception to these rules. The clock doesn’t start on the statute of limitations until the plaintiff turns 18.

What Should You Do After an Injury?

Seek medical attention as soon as you are injured. A paramedic or doctor will not only work to ensure your safety, but they will also serve as a trustworthy witness. After seeing and treating you, they will document the extent and type of injuries you experienced, which can serve as evidence in the lawsuit.

Always keep your own record of the incident. As soon as you can, write down the details leading up to the injury, as well as the order of events, descriptions of those involved, and any sensations you experienced. If possible, take photos of the bruise, cut, laceration, or broken bone. Gather the contact information of any individuals present for the incident, as well. This documentation paints an accurate picture for your personal injury attorney so that they have concrete information to base their argument on.

If you were injured due to another party’s negligence, turn to Bothe & Lauridsen PC of Columbia Falls, MT. These personal injury attorneys have been serving residents of Montana since 1970, and they have over 50 years of combined experience. They work on contingency, so you don’t have to budget for legal fees before you receive compensation. Whether you were injured by your neighbor’s dog, a doctor, or a passing driver, you can rest assured their team will assess your case from every angle before coming up with an effective strategy. Visit the website for more information on their skills, or call (406) 892-2193 to schedule a consultation.