For many people, deciding whether to pursue damages through legal action is the first consideration, before deciding when to file – but delaying too long can cost you. In Louisiana, you have one year from the time of the incident, or the time you became aware that the product was defective, to file your case for damages. Typically, awards can be made to compensate you for medical expenses, lost wages during your recovery, repairing or replacing damaged property, any future medical expenses you anticipate from the incident, and other costs related to the defective product.
If your case goes to trial, you’re likely looking at one to two additional years for the legal process to play out. However, most cases are settled out of court, prior to a trial starting, so the timelines to achieve a just outcome in your case can vary widely. The most important date is the one-year filing deadline. If you miss that, you may be ineligible for any compensation from the product’s manufacturer.
At The Gertler Law Firm, we’ve helped clients who’ve been injured or suffered losses or damages as a result of defective products recover millions of dollars from the responsible parties. Call us today at (504) 475-7788 for a free consultation with an experienced New Orleans injury attorney.