Every personal injury case has a ticking clock. The statute of limitations is the legal deadline by which you must file a lawsuit after being injured. If you miss this deadline, you permanently lose your right to seek compensation through the court system, no matter how strong your case may be.
Common Statute of Limitations by State
Statute of limitations periods vary significantly by state. New Jersey allows 2 years for personal injury claims. New York also allows 3 years. Pennsylvania allows 2 years. Connecticut allows 2 years. Florida allows 4 years for most personal injury cases. California allows 2 years. Texas allows 2 years. These are general guidelines — specific case types may have different deadlines.
Exceptions That May Extend the Deadline
Several exceptions can extend or pause (toll) the statute of limitations. The discovery rule applies when injuries are not immediately apparent, starting the clock from when you discovered or should have discovered the injury. If the injured person is a minor, the statute typically does not begin until they reach the age of majority. If the defendant leaves the state, the clock may be paused during their absence. Government claims often have much shorter deadlines, sometimes as little as 90 days for notice of claim.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Even though you may have years to file a lawsuit, acting quickly is always advisable. Evidence can be lost or destroyed over time. Witnesses' memories fade. Surveillance footage may be overwritten. Medical records are easier to obtain when they are recent. Starting the legal process early gives your attorney the best chance of building a strong case.
Don't Wait — Contact SettleWell Today
If you have been injured and are unsure about your filing deadline, contact SettleWell immediately for a free case review. Our network of attorneys can quickly assess your situation and ensure you do not miss any critical deadlines. Time is not on your side — the sooner you act, the better your chances of receiving fair compensation.