True, accidents can happen to persons of any age, including young ones. While accidents account for the majority of pediatric injuries, others can be traced back to someone else’s carelessness or wrongdoing. An injured youngster has the same entitlement to financial recompense as an adult in this situation. A child lacks the legal capacity to sign paperwork or make decisions for themselves, so an adult would need to pursue compensation in a court action on behalf of the child.
You might be wondering if you can file a personal injury claim on behalf of your child if they were hurt due to the negligence of another individual. Contact The Law Offices of Anthony Carbone for better options.
Common Childhood Accidents
The following are examples of common accidents that include children and could result in a claim for damages:
- Injuries sustained as a result of using a faulty device, such as a baby stroller, cot, toy, car seat, or bicycle
- Drownings and other incidents in swimming pools
- Fire and heat-related burns
- Bites and attacks from dogs and other domestic animals
- Accidents caused by slipping, tripping, or otherwise losing one’s footing
- Incidents involving motor vehicles, including those involving bikes and pedestrians
- The lack of adult supervision in recreational settings as a cause of injuries
New Jersey’s statute of limitations for child injury compensation claims
When a minor suffers harm in an accident that was caused by another person’s carelessness, that person or people may be held legally responsible through a personal injury lawsuit. Possibly you are aware that there is a time limit for filing a claim for personal injuries. The statute of limitations is this type of time limit.
There is a two-year window following an accident in which a New Jersey resident can file a claim for damages caused by another party’s negligence. However, the statute of limitations may be “tolled” (extended) under special conditions. Claims brought on behalf of minors are exempt from the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations on a minor’s personal injury claim is suspended until the youngster turns 18 when they become legally capable of bringing suit. Consequently, a youngster has until the end of the second year after their 18th birthday to initiate a personal injury claim.