Personal Injury Statute of Limitations by State
A quick reference to common personal injury filing deadlines in major states, plus exceptions that can shorten or extend the time you have.
Every state sets a deadline, called a statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Miss it and your case is usually barred. The table below lists commonly cited general deadlines for ordinary negligence-based injury claims in several large states.
| State | General deadline for injury lawsuits |
|---|---|
| Arizona | 2 years |
| California | 2 years |
| Florida | 2 years for negligence claims that arose after March 24, 2023 |
| Georgia | 2 years |
| Illinois | 2 years |
| Massachusetts | 3 years |
| Michigan | 3 years |
| New Jersey | 2 years |
| New York | 3 years |
| North Carolina | 3 years |
| Ohio | 2 years |
| Pennsylvania | 2 years |
| Tennessee | 1 year |
| Texas | 2 years |
| Virginia | 2 years |
| Washington | 3 years |
Exceptions that can change the deadline
- Claims against government entities often require a written notice within months, far shorter than the lawsuit deadline.
- Injuries to children may pause the clock until they reach adulthood in many states.
- The discovery rule can delay the start when an injury could not reasonably be found right away.
- Medical malpractice, product liability and wrongful death can follow different rules.
- Mental incapacity or the defendant leaving the state can sometimes extend deadlines.
When does the clock start?
Usually on the date of the accident or injury. In some cases it starts when the injury was discovered or should have been discovered.
Why you should not wait
- Insurance negotiations do not stop the clock
- Evidence and witnesses disappear over time
- Attorneys need time to investigate before filing
What to do next
Write down your accident date, note whether any government body was involved, and speak with a licensed attorney in your state well before the deadline.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common personal injury deadline?
Two years is common, but many states allow three and a few allow only one. Always confirm for your state and type of claim.
Does filing an insurance claim stop the statute of limitations?
No. Only filing a lawsuit in time protects your right to sue.
Are deadlines shorter for claims against the government?
Often yes. Some require formal notice within a few months of the injury.