When someone is injured on another person’s property, Kansas law allows them to pursue a premises liability claim in certain situations. However, these cases are subject to strict time limits. Understanding the statute of limitations is essential, because missing the deadline can prevent an injured person from recovering compensation altogether. At AGH Law, we provide legal assistance to the Kansas City public and help clients understand how these deadlines may affect their rights.

Understanding Premises Liability in Kansas

Premises liability refers to injuries that occur due to unsafe or hazardous conditions on someone else’s property. These cases often involve slip and fall accidents, inadequate maintenance, poor lighting, broken stairs, or other dangerous conditions. Property owners and occupiers generally have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors, depending on the visitor’s legal status.

To succeed in a premises liability claim, the injured party typically must show that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to address it or provide adequate warning.

Kansas Statute of Limitations for Premises Liability Claims

In Kansas, most premises liability cases fall under the statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Under Kansas law, an injured person generally has two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. This two-year deadline applies to many accidents involving unsafe property conditions.

If a lawsuit is not filed within this time frame, the court will likely dismiss the case, regardless of how strong the underlying claim may be. For this reason, acting promptly after an injury is critical.

When Does the Time Limit Begin?

In most premises liability cases, the statute of limitations begins on the date the injury occurred. However, there are limited situations where the clock may start later, such as when an injury is not immediately discoverable. These exceptions are narrow and depend on the specific facts of the case.

Because determining the correct start date can be complicated, it is important to evaluate the timeline carefully as early as possible.

Special Circumstances That May Affect the Deadline

Certain factors can affect how the statute of limitations applies. For example, claims involving minors, claims against government entities, or cases involving delayed discovery of an injury may follow different rules or require additional steps. Claims against a city or other public entity may also involve shorter notice requirements before a lawsuit can be filed.

Failing to follow these additional rules can jeopardize a claim even if it appears to be within the general two-year limit.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Even though two years may seem like ample time, evidence can fade, witnesses may become unavailable, and property conditions can change. Taking action early allows for a stronger investigation and helps preserve important details that may support a premises liability claim.

At AGH Law, we assist individuals in Kansas City with evaluating their situation and understanding how Kansas deadlines apply to their potential claims.