Time limitations for cause of action are an integral part of the American system of law. These limitations define time periods following the accrual of the right of action in which a litigant must assert his claim. If the litigant fails to commence his suit within the specified time period, the court will generally deny relief. Given that failure to commence a suit before the limitation period has expired may deny an injured party relief and allow a wrongdoer to escape without providing such relief, litigants must be able to determine the limitation periods that will apply to their particular causes of action.