The COVID tolling window, allowing for the filing of personal injury cases impacted by the pandemic, has now officially ended. In light of this development, time may be running out for victims who have accrued any personal injury complaints in the midst of the pandemic, specifically during the defined 228-day tolling period that spanned from March 20, 2020, to November 3, 2020. It’s important to note that these complaints can no longer benefit from the COVID tolling relief if they have not been filed already.
As detailed by law firm Bond Schoeneck & King PLLC, the closure of this window places greater time urgency on plaintiffs and their respective legal counsels to expedite the necessary filings for their personal injury cases. The tolling window offered a temporary suspension, or extension, of the time limit for these cases, given the difficulty many faced in lodging the cases during the COVID-19 crisis. Now, it appears that this concession has elapsed.
Personal injury cases cover a wide array of legal issues, including but not limited to, accidents, medical malpractice, and product liability. As the legal community knows, the timeliness of filing can significantly impact the success of the claim, especially when considering the statute of limitations. With this window closed, there might be a surge in filings rushing to avoid expiration.
The end of the COVID tolling window could also believe complications for law professionals, most notably those overseeing personal injury suits. Legal practitioners are encouraged to stay updated with changes in the legal landscape, especially with ongoing changes brought on by the COVID-19 crisis. The pandemic’s impact on legal processes is continuously developing, and practitioners must adapt quickly to ensure the best possible outcome for their clients.