In Puerto Rico, when pursuing a medical malpractice claim against a hospital and physician, understanding the statute of limitations defense is crucial. Puerto Rico Jury Instruction — 1.3 provides guidance on this defense, ensuring a fair legal process for all parties involved. The statute of limitations serves as a time limit within which a plaintiff must file a medical malpractice claim. Failure to do so within the specified period can result in the claim being barred, preventing the plaintiff from seeking compensation for any damages suffered. Puerto Rico Jury Instruction — 1.3 focuses specifically on the medical malpractice claim against a hospital and physician. Different types of Puerto Rico Jury Instruction — 1.3 Medical Malpractice Claim Against Hospital And Physician Statute Of Limitations Defense may include: 1. Discovery-Based Statute of Limitations: This defense asserts that the statute of limitations begins when the plaintiff discovers, or should have reasonably discovered, their injury or its connection to medical malpractice. It takes into consideration instances when the injury or its cause was not immediately apparent, often due to delayed symptoms or misdiagnosis. 2. Statute of Repose: This defense establishes an absolute time limit within which a medical malpractice claim must be filed, regardless of when the injury is discovered. It recognizes that after a certain period, it may be impractical or unfair to expect healthcare providers to defend against claims based on events that occurred many years ago. 3. Tolling the Statute of Limitations: In certain circumstances, the statute of limitations may be temporarily suspended or "tolled." This can occur when the injured patient is a minor, mentally incapacitated, or if the physician fraudulently conceals their malpractice. Tolling allows the plaintiff additional time to file their claim once the condition causing the tolling has ceased. It is important to consult with an experienced attorney who specializes in medical malpractice law in Puerto Rico to fully understand the nuances of the statute of limitations defense for a medical malpractice claim against a hospital and physician. Their expertise will ensure compliance with specific requirements and the protection of the plaintiff's rights.