Statutes of Limitations for Accident Cases: Theory and Evidence

Research in Law and Economics, Vol. 19, 1999

Posted: 21 Feb 1999

See all articles by Matthew J. Baker

Matthew J. Baker

United States Naval Academy - Department of Economics

Thomas J. Miceli

University of Connecticut - Department of Economics

Abstract

The statute of limiations for accident cases puts an upper bound on the length of time following an accident that a victim can file suit. From a theoretical perspective, the optimal statute length balances the reduction in deterrence from a limit on suits against the savings in litigation and error costs. This paper formalizes the theoretical analysis of statutes of limitations and derives comparative statics which form the basis for an empirical test using cross-state variation in statute lengths. The results of the empirical analysis provide general support for the theory.

Note: This is a description of the article and is not the actual abstract.

Suggested Citation

Baker, Matthew J. and Miceli, Thomas J., Statutes of Limitations for Accident Cases: Theory and Evidence. Research in Law and Economics, Vol. 19, 1999, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=150949

Matthew J. Baker

United States Naval Academy - Department of Economics ( email )

589 McNair Road
Annapolis, MD 21402
United States
410-293-6890 (Phone)
410-293-6899 (Fax)

Thomas J. Miceli (Contact Author)

University of Connecticut - Department of Economics ( email )

365 Fairfield Way, U-1063
Storrs, CT 06269-1063
United States
860-486-5810 (Phone)
860-486-4463 (Fax)

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