Slip and fall accidents can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. Depending on the severity of the incident, you may be facing extensive medical bills and time off work. It is essential to understand your legal rights early on, particularly the deadlines associated with filing a claim.
Milavetz Injury Law, P.A., is a long-standing Minnesota law firm with a proven track record in personal injury. Our team has the skills and experience needed to secure the compensation you deserve. For more information about Minnesota’s slip and fall statute of limitations and how to file a claim, schedule a free consultation today.
- What Is the Deadline To File a Slip and Fall Claim in Minnesota?
- When the Clock Begins for a Slip and Fall Claim in Minnesota
- Missing the Deadline To File a Slip and Fall Lawsuit
- Is Extending the Statute of Limitations for Slip and Fall Cases in Minnesota Possible?
- The Minnesota Slip and Fall Lawyers at Milavetz Injury Law, P.A. Can Help You Meet Legal Deadlines
- Get in Touch for a Complimentary Slip and Fall Case Evaluation
What Is the Deadline To File a Slip and Fall Claim in Minnesota?
A state’s statute of limitations provides information on how long injured individuals have to file a claim under different circumstances. In Minnesota, you generally have six years to file a slip and fall accident claim. However, this deadline is reduced to two years for cases involving intentional harm or assault. These deadlines are strict, and failing to file within them can result in you losing the right to pursue compensation.
Claims Involving a Construction or Design Defect
If your slip and fall is tied to a defect in a building’s initial design or construction, such as faulty drains or uneven concrete installed years ago, a different rule applies. You have two years from the date of injury, but no more than 10 years after the construction was substantially completed, to file a claim.
Wrongful Deaths in Slip and Fall Claims
In cases of a wrongful death, a slip and fall claim must be filed within three years. An appointed trustee must do this, typically the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate.
When the Clock Begins for a Slip and Fall Claim in Minnesota
Under most circumstances, the countdown for the statute of limitations begins on the date of injury. Minnesota law does not generally extend this deadline based on when the injury is discovered. In most slip and fall cases, the clock starts ticking on the day the accident occurs, even if the full extent of the harm isn’t immediately apparent. Exceptions are rare and typically require proof of fraud or concealment.
Missing the Deadline To File a Slip and Fall Lawsuit
Failing to meet the statute of limitations deadline in Minnesota can have serious consequences. The court may dismiss your case, which could result in your inability to recover compensation and a loss of negotiating power with insurers.
While missing the deadline can be devastating, those who act quickly have a better chance of securing compensation. Due to the high stakes, it is best not to delay seeking legal help. Our compassionate personal injury attorneys could assist with your case from start to finish, ensuring your claim is filed on time.
Is Extending the Statute of Limitations for Slip and Fall Cases in Minnesota Possible?
There are several circumstances in which the statute of limitations may be extended for slip and fall cases in Minnesota, including the following:
- Injured Minors – When victims are minors, the clock starts ticking on their 18th birthday, granting them one year from that date to file.
- Mental Incapacitation – If the injured person was mentally incapacitated, the statute of limitations is suspended until the incapacity is lifted, with a maximum extension of five years, after which they have one year to file.
- Defendant’s Identity if Hidden – If the defendant leaves the state or conceals their identity, the statute of limitations is tolled until they return or are apprehended.
While these exceptions exist, they are rare and fact-specific, which is why consulting an experienced attorney is essential. Our lawyers can evaluate if any exceptions apply to your unique case.
The Minnesota Slip and Fall Lawyers at Milavetz Injury Law, P.A. Can Help You Meet Legal Deadlines
Our firm has extensive experience in helping clients meet critical legal deadlines. When you choose to partner with our slip and fall lawyers, we can help with the following:
- Investigating the fall
- Gathering time-sensitive evidence
- Communicating with insurers
- Ensuring all paperwork is filed correctly and on time
- Negotiating for maximum compensation
- Taking your case to trial if needed
Over the years, our attorneys have received numerous recognitions, including Minnesota Super Lawyers, Attorney of the Year, and Minnesota’s Top Personal Injury Lawyers. We have also secured millions of dollars for clients across Minnesota. Below are some of our key successes:
- $15.5 million recovered from a truck accident
- $6.1 million recovered in a dangerous drug case
- $4.1 million recovered in an aviation accident
Contact our law office today to learn more about how we can assist with your slip and fall accident claim.
Get in Touch for a Complimentary Slip and Fall Case Evaluation
If you or your loved one has been injured in a slip and fall accident due to someone else’s negligent actions, you have legal options available to pursue justice. However, you must act quickly to comply with Minnesota’s slip and fall statute of limitations.
Contact Milavetz Injury Law, P.A., for a free consultation today by calling 763-560-0000. Our firm has over 60 years of success in serving clients in the greater Minneapolis area and handling cases like yours.
