What is the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in Pennsylvania?

Two years from the date of injury for most personal injury claims, under 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524.

Is the deadline shorter for claims against a government entity in PA?

Yes. Claims involving public entities like PennDOT, SEPTA, or a municipality typically require written notice within six months under Pennsylvania's Tort Claims Act.

Does the deadline change for an injured child?

Generally yes. For a minor, the two-year clock usually does not begin until the child turns 18.

Pennsylvania Personal Injury Filing Deadlines You Can't Afford to Miss

In Pennsylvania you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Miss that window and you almost always lose your right to compensation entirely.

Short answer: In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit (42 Pa.C.S. § 5524). Once the deadline passes, the court will almost certainly dismiss your case no matter how strong your evidence is.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Pennsylvania?

The Pennsylvania statute of limitations for most personal injury claims — car accidents, slip-and-falls, and general negligence — is two years. The clock usually starts on the date the injury occurred. Wrongful death and survival actions also carry a two-year deadline.

What happens if I miss the deadline?

If you file even one day late, the defense will move to dismiss and the court will almost always agree. That is true regardless of how clear the other side's fault is. Protecting the deadline is the single most important early step in any claim.

Are there exceptions that change the Pennsylvania deadline?

Minors: For an injured child, the two-year clock generally does not begin until the child turns 18.
The discovery rule: When an injury could not reasonably have been discovered right away, the clock may start later. See how the discovery rule affects your deadline.
Claims against the government: If a city, PennDOT, SEPTA, or another public entity is involved, you must give written notice within six months under Pennsylvania's Tort Claims Act — far shorter than two years.

What should I do right now?

Do not wait. Evidence degrades, witnesses forget, and insurers work against you from day one. Organize the facts of your claim and talk to a Pennsylvania attorney well before the deadline. You can build a free claim summary in a few minutes and compare attorneys who handle cases in your county.

This article is general information about Pennsylvania law, not legal advice for your specific claim. Deadlines can be shorter than you think — confirm your exact deadline with a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.