While the quote is unattributed to an unknown author, it bears some significance. “One of these days, is none of these days.” For injury victims, filing a claim on time has an important meaning. Truth be told, failure to abide by the statute of limitations could result in you losing some critical rights.
Non-lawyers and even attorneys who don’t practice personal injury law often make wrongful assumptions. More than likely, you’ve already heard the play on words about those who assume. Most importantly, you may ultimately kick yourself if you’ve procrastinated about seeing an attorney if someone else caused you harm.
NOT EVERY NEW JERSEY PERSONAL INJURY CASE ALLOWS VICTIMS TO WAIT TWO YEARS TO FILE A CLAIM. At the very least, it only takes a delay of just 90 days to add some extra unnecessary work to pursuing legal action.
Filing Claims Against Public Entities
No doubt you’re confused at what constitutes a public entity. You might think of it as anything funded by taxpayer money. Therefore, if you’re in a motor vehicle accident with a city vehicle in Elizabeth, you may have a claim against the local government.
Likewise, you may be able to pursue a case for monetary damages if you slip and fall on a college campus. If you’re injured at Union County College, your attorney will investigate whether Union County should be held liable. Meanwhile, allegations of negligence against Kean University require filing a Notice of Claim with the State of New Jersey.
These are just two examples of prospective claims against public entities. Anything that happens on public property or injuries caused due to the negligence of a public employee fall into this category. The commonality between them requires filing a New Jersey Tort Claims Notice.
Claims against public entities have their own section in New Jersey law under Title 59. The State of New Jersey provides Notice of Claim Instructions as part of its risk management procedures. Notably, the State calls for filing the form within 90 days of the occurrence that caused your injuries.
In some circumstances, you may be able to file a Notice of late claim if you didn’t file the requisite paperwork within the 90 days. According to NJSA 59:8-9, this extends the time for filing the time to up to one year. However, your attorney will need to file a motion asking the court to order to allow the late filing.
After the Notice of Claim requirements are met, most public entities allow injury victims two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
That said, the rules for cases against the Port Authority of New Jersey and New York contain even stricter deadlines. For starters, the injured party needs to file a Notice of Claim 60 days before filing a lawsuit.
It doesn’t stop there. Victims only have one year to bring a case to court. Otherwise, they lose their right to sue.
The Port Authority controls local transportation hubs and river crossings in the State of New Jersey. These include Liberty Airport aka Newark Airport and the PATH station in Jersey City. Also included are the George Washington Bridge, Holland Tunnel, and the Lincoln Tunnel.
Truth be told, you could wait until your son or daughter reaches adulthood and allow them to file a case on their own. However, you should be aware of why that’s not necessarily a great idea.
For one, investigating stale claims often proves difficult. Even with technology, it’s cumbersome to obtain dated reports. Witness recollections change over time.
That’s not to say that an adult who suffered harm as a child shouldn’t attempt legal action. This includes claims of birth injuries.
Work-Related Accidents
If the workers’ compensation insurance company validates your claim, you have an extended time period in which to file a claim petition. A claim petition is a legal document filed within the workers’ compensation courts for benefits when you have a work-related accident.
Contested claims must be filed within two years of the occurrence or your first knowledge that your injuries are work-related. The latter generally applies to occupational injuries. For example, if your doctor tells you that your cancer is due to exposure to dangerous substances at work, the statute of limitation starts from the date you learn your illness is work-related.
Otherwise, the statute of limitations runs from the last date you received authorized medical care or money from the insurance company related to your accident. You have two years from either of those dates to file a claim.
Contact Us
The bottom line is that procrastination can impact your ability to collect monetary damages for accidental harm. The Law Offices of Beninato & Matrafajlo would like to assist you. Contact us to learn how we can help you.
Attorney Dan Matrafajlo and his staff are the best. They did an amazing job facilitating the closing of my property. They provide you with the confidence and peace of mind everything will get done right. I would without a doubt recommend them for any legal matters you may have.
Chris K.
02:55 02 Jan 21
Thanks for everything.
Mashell B.
19:12 22 Dec 20
OWEN T.
22:59 16 Dec 20
I have used Dan a couple of times now, firstly representing me in court as I was unable to be there in person due to a trip overseas. Although it was not a...
This is really good law firm. The attorney did fantastic job for me.
harry G.
17:09 11 Dec 20
Great lawyers. Highly recommend
Carlos R.
05:34 24 Nov 20
Buen trato a los clientes
Donovan F.
08:34 19 Nov 20
The experience with the office was great, I was explained everything, the pros , the cons, they never kept back what can happen. They were very professional, caring and helpful, needless to say they helped me with my case and helped me with receiving what I deserved. Definitely recommend them to anyone who is looking for an attorney to help them with any case their office provides!
Mary R.
13:55 30 Oct 20
Dan represented me on a traffic violation in NJ, very professional and was easy to work with. Office staff was very attentive. Would highly recommend him...
I would highly recommend Beninato & Matrafajlo Attorneys at Law, LLC . They were recommended to me because I was in a car accident. I was told they go the extra mile for you and they sure did! I’m extremely happy with how they handled my case from day 1 til my case was resolved. The staff was very professional and I always got a response back promptly.
Jess H
18:59 15 Sep 20
I would highly recommend Beninato & Matrafajlo Attorneys at Law, LLC. They were recommended to me because I was in a car accident. I was told they go the...
Dan did an awesome job! I'm very happy I chose this firm to represent me with my case; I would definitely recommend it to everyone! Thank you for what you did.
Dan and his team worked very hard to represent me during my car accident case. He has an outstanding reputation in the legal field and a great rapport with his clients. I would recommend everyone to him if you need a lawyer.
Alina L.
15:10 09 Sep 20
Dan and all of his staff are excellent, professional, and fast communicators. Any time I needed anything, they were there for me quickly and answered all of my emails within a day. I would recommend him to anyone!
Andrea H.
14:24 19 Aug 20
Dan is an excellent lawyer with an extensive knowledge of the legal system. He helped me get out of serious jam and was well worth every penny. He is without a doubt the best lawyer i’ve dealt with hands down....You will be more than overjoyed with his services.
John W.
16:36 22 Jul 20
Dan is the man! Beninato & Matrafajlo has an exceptional team that is responsive and super professional.
Daiana C.
23:25 16 Jul 20
Dan is not just your average lawyer. This man will go out of his way, and go above and beyond for you. I highly recommend his law firm for any personal injury or workers compensation related issues. He has an awesome staff. I truly believe you will not find another lawyer like Dan, not just in the state of New Jersey. But the eastern seaboard. You will not be disappointed with his services.
Christian
21:26 19 May 20
Dan Matrafajlo is a top notch attorney who cares about his clients. I have referred friends to Dan for many different legal matters as well as having used Dan’s services myself for several different types of legal issues, all of which resulted in favorable outcomes. I highly recommend Dan Matrafajlo with Beninato & Matrafajlo.
Christopher J.
14:50 29 Mar 20
I chose Dan to represent me because I wanted to have the best possible outcome in my case. Working with Dan has made my worries an anxiety go away. Thank you!
Dan and the lawyer’s team is the Best law office in New Jersey. Every cent is worth hiring the Law office. I always look for reviews and make sure to read people’s comments and that’s how I got to Dan. I was in very difficult situation and didn’t know how to get out of the situation Until I stepped in to the law office of Dan. Trust him and he will show you what he is all about. Amazing Law office Team.
kabir N.
16:06 04 Mar 20
Magdalena Z.
22:48 29 Feb 20
I was referred to Dan for a serious DUI which involved multiple tickets no injuries no accidents. Dan assured me that might case had some flaws he did not make any promises made me feel comfortable and put my worries at ease. Needless to say mycase was dismissed due to complications Dan brought forward in the court he fought hard for me and my family and my freedom at a very reasonable price I would consider this law firm one of the best for DUI cases in New Jersey I've sent many of my friends with similar cases to him not with all the success I had but very good results
Joseph A F.
11:52 29 Feb 20
Chris N.
23:22 28 Feb 20
Alicja K.
22:15 28 Feb 20
Rocio V.
20:32 28 Feb 20
Dan is hands down the best lawyer out there. He will work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Jonathan K.
19:20 27 Feb 20
I can say without a doubt .. Dan Matrafajlo is an outstanding attorney. 5+ stars . He & his firm represented me on my worker’s compensation case . Years ago. Did right not only by me but my wife & friends as well. Danny & his firm continues to represent me . Will always represent me .. and our most recent my son who got ticketed for allegedly speeding and illegal lane change on the parkway which I know many many drivers have been ticketed for the same violations when you know You haven’t committed it. But!!!.. Dan Matrafajlo got my sons tickets dismissed. This attorney & his firm know what there doing . And are the the best . Talk about hitting the trifecta. Beniato & Matrafajlo firm and all his staff and attorneys . Get the job done. The best ..super lawyer. Google him you’ll see I’m not B.Sn you .
SAM R.
16:52 07 Feb 20
Thank you ....and your associate best lawyer in town GOD bless ...
Sonny C.
00:16 30 Jan 20
I had a work related incident on 11/2017. I immediately google reviewed a workers comp attorney. Beninato & Matrafajlo Law firm revealed extremely positive reviews. Without a hesitation I drove to their Elizabeth location seeking help. Attorney Andrew was very polite, courteous and resourceful with aiding my problems. Andrew assistant was just as helpful. They kept me updated throughout the entire process via phone or email. The doctors they administered to me were pleasant as well. Even though the process took nearly 2yrs - Andrew was alongside for entire journey. On May 29, 2019 I finally went to court for work incident. Andrew prompt me on entire court process making me feel comfy and confident before speaking in front of judge. After the ordeal Beninato & Matrafajlo Law firm followed up making sure I was completely satisfied with everything. I wouldn’t of chosen anyone else! Thank You Andrew, his assistant & entire Law firm for the marvelous experience.
Kabir P.
18:56 28 Jan 20
Michael M.
15:02 03 Dec 19
Benjamin J.
15:21 28 Oct 19
DAN is a great lawyer!!!Far exceeded my expectations.. answered all my questions personally and walked me through the whole process... THANKS
Dan is a lawyer you want on your side, he was on point , always working on strategies on my case. btw we won our case!!! When it matters to you call him. Thanks Again Beninato & Matrafajlo
Raniero S.
22:11 16 Jul 19
Best Lawyer ever very professional flights to the very end To make sure his client is happy with the decision of a case
Jelsson B.
01:44 28 Jun 19
Dan is the best lawyer I have ever met he did not give up he said he was going to help me and that's definitely what he did I am grateful to have him as my attorney and I will highly recommend him to anyone looking for help p.s and everyone that works at the office is extremely professional polites and very nice and I thank you as well keep up the great work
Albert F.
10:54 20 May 19
Mr. Matrafajlo and his staff are both professional and kind. He went to court 5 times over 6+months fighting a traffic ticket that would of suspended my license and caused me thousands in fine and surcharges.It was dismissed with zero owed to the courts after proving DMV administrative discrepancies.Thank you so much for all your helpRenee
Renee O.
14:07 11 May 19
Mr. Matrafajlo and his staff are both professional and kind. He went to court 5 times over 6+months fighting a traffic ticket that would of suspended my...
First of all, I admired Dan for his understanding by putting himself on his clients shoes and fight for their best interest (outcome). For me, the definition of a great lawyer are those who "deliver" and he does.
Jay L.
16:22 03 Apr 19
I am writing this review almost a decade after the fact......Mr. Matrafajlo is an excellent attorney. He did everything in his power to help me out. I would recommend him to anyone that was in need of an attorney.
Mr. W.
23:24 01 Mar 19
The best of the best! I would definitely recommend Dan to my family and friends. Very professional and goes above and beyond to answer questions and to get the best results!
David P.
20:43 18 Jan 19
I got a 3 point ticket for doing an unsafe turn. I ended up hiring Matrafajlo. He seemed pretty confident he can get the ticket reduced to obstruction of...
I would definitely recommend Dan and his team to friends and family. The staff was very knowledgeable and helpful every time I reached out with questions. Dan and Teresa aka the Dream Team!! Everyone went above and beyond for little ‘ol me! Job well done!!
T S.
18:29 07 Nov 18
Dan really went above and beyond for my case . I was wrongfully accused of reckless driving . He could of just told me to take first plea deal and been done with it . Instead he suggested I refuse . The prosecutor in turn ran us around for months refusing to budge. Dan was sted fast in his support for me and never wavered. What started as a reckless driving which is a criminal offense ended as an unsafe driving ( 0 point offense). All thanks to Dan's hard work and perseverance
Cj C.
23:13 16 Sep 18
The best of the best, there's no other choice if you're looking for legal representation. Simply an incredible attorney. Helped me get out of a serious jam.
Jim G.
22:51 08 May 18
Dan Matrafajlo was fantastic. From the moment I hired him he handled everything from scheduling my court date to representing me with my traffic ticket. Literally, all I had to do was show up to court. He put me at ease throughout the whole process and had my fine reduced dramatically!!I highly recommend him.
A J S.
02:40 26 Apr 18
Dan Matrafajlo one the best attorneys ever I was completely satisfied and he has one of the best teams working for him .. I would and have recommended him .
Represented my mother when she had an accident, highly recommend him as an attorney
george G.
20:57 25 Mar 18
I don't know much about Beninato but I know a lot about Matrafajlo Danny Matrafajlo is very ambitious, smart, knowlegable, helpful lawyer I have ever know. Keep that way Danny Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family
Few months back, my husband had injured in a car accident. It seemed to be a small injury, but in fact it was brain injury and the truck who hit our car, ran away. We were so confused that how to survive and get compensation for brain injury. At that time, from my friend's reference, I got to know about Beninato & Matrafajlo Law, The firm handled our case very carefully and passionately, took the right steps for us and helped us in getting compensation.Thanks to Beninato & Matrafajlo Law!
Catelyn M.
05:42 26 Jul 17
Dan is an outstanding lawyer he has handled personal injury cases for me for a couple of my friends he has handled matrimonial and Municipal Court tickets and everyone is happy with his services
Sove A.
20:05 23 Jul 17
I was referred to Dan Mantrafajlo by a dear friend of my that I respect greatly. This friend said that Dan was the type of lawyer that made the hard work she was putting into law school worth it...I found this to be very true. Professional, hard working, informed and willing to go above and beyond. This is a real review from a real client.
Damon O.
08:12 20 Jul 17
Very professional. I highly recommend it to anybody.
Santiago P.
01:46 12 Jul 17
Simply put he is the best! He was professional, prompt and always acted in my best interest. Couldn't have expected a better outcome.
Mr. Matrafajlo has represented me in a civil case where I was struck and injured by another vehicle.His professionalism and hard work truly made my experience seamless. There will be unpredictable measures that life throws at you, it always helps to have someone you trust by your side.I highly recommend Mr. Matrafajlo or anyone in this law firm to represent them if need be.-Zack
Dan Matrafajlo excellent lawyer. He solved my two previous cases. Individual approach, prompt actions, purposefully moving toward the success. Thank you Dan, yes you are the best of the best.
Dan is an excellent attorney. Unlike most attorneys Dan actually cares about your case. He went the extra mile and did countless hours of research to help me win my case.I'd give him 10 stars if I was able to.
rob C.
14:44 31 Mar 15
I starting using Dan after a VERY bad experience with a previous attorney who took advantage of our family. Dan is a great lawyer and very competent. While he specializes in personal injury, he and his office staff proved themselves on multiple occasions to be more then competent in other areas of the law. He's quick to respond and always makes us feel like our case is his top priority. I have since referred him to multiple people and their experience has been a positive one as well. His rates are reasonable and he has no desire to drag things out, file extension after extension etc. and rack up my bill as our previous attorney did. We highly recommend Dan Matrafajilo Esq., as does everyone I know who have used his services before.
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