Bill > H1194

This bill aims to fix a procedural oversight in the Uniform Probate Code, which governs how estates are handled after someone dies. Specifically, it modifies Section 3-803 of Chapter 190B to allow lawsuits for personal injury or death against a deceased person's estate, even if a personal representative (the person legally responsible for managing the estate) hasn't been appointed. The key change is that such lawsuits must be filed within three years of the incident causing the injury or death, but no later than one year after the person died. Importantly, any money awarded in these lawsuits can only be collected from liability insurance or a bond, not from the deceased person's other assets. If no personal representative is appointed, the lawsuit can proceed by naming the deceased person as the defendant, and legal documents will be served on the insurance or bond provider. This correction is intended to apply to all legal claims that arose on or after March 31, 2012.