What Is the Statute of Limitations in Pennsylvania for Personal Injury Claims?

If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you might wonder, “What is the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Pennsylvania?” Here’s the answer.

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. This includes claims for negligence, wrongful acts, and wrongful death. Failing to file within this timeframe can result in losing your right to recover compensation.

Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial for protecting your rights. With decades of experience handling personal injury cases in Pennsylvania, I’ll explain how this legal rule works, its exceptions, and how Mattiacci Law can help ensure you meet critical deadlines.

What Is the Statute of Limitations?

The statute of limitations is a legal deadline for filing a lawsuit.

In Pennsylvania:

• Personal Injury Claims: Two years from the date of injury.
• Wrongful Death Claims: Two years from the date of death.
• Property Damage Claims: Two years from the date the damage occurred.

Quick Tip: Missing the statute of limitations can result in your case being dismissed, so it’s vital to act quickly.

When Does the Statute of Limitations Begin?

The statute of limitations typically starts on the date of the injury or incident.

For example:

• Car Accidents: The clock starts on the date of the crash.
• Slip and Fall: The date of the accident begins the two-year countdown.
• Medical Malpractice: The statute generally starts on the date of the medical error.

Quick Tip: If you’re unsure when the statute of limitations began in your case, consult an attorney immediately to avoid missing deadlines.

What Are the Exceptions to the Two-Year Rule?

There are specific exceptions to Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations that may extend the filing deadline.

1. The Discovery Rule:
   • Applies when injuries or their causes are not immediately apparent.
   • The statute begins when the victim becomes aware of—or reasonably should have become aware of—the injury.
     Example: A surgical error discovered months after the procedure may qualify under this rule.
2. Minors:
   • If the injured person is under 18, the statute of limitations does not begin until their 18th birthday.
   • They have until their 20th birthday to file a lawsuit.
3. Claims Against Government Entities:
   • Special rules apply when filing claims against state or local governments.
   • You must file a written notice within six months of the injury and include details such as:
     • The injured person’s name and address.
     • The date, time, and location of the accident.
     • Contact information for any treating physicians.

Quick Tip: Exceptions to the statute of limitations can be complex. Seek legal guidance to ensure you understand your rights.

Why Is the Statute of Limitations Important?

Meeting the statute of limitations is essential for preserving your right to compensation.

• Legal Consequences: Filing after the deadline almost always results in your case being dismissed.
• Evidence Preservation: Acting quickly ensures that crucial evidence, such as witness statements and physical evidence, is not lost over time.

Quick Tip: Contacting an attorney as soon as possible after your injury can help secure critical evidence and build a strong case.

What Steps Should You Take If the Deadline Is Approaching?

If you’re close to the statute of limitations deadline, here’s what you need to do:

1. Consult an Attorney Immediately:
   A lawyer can review your case and file the necessary paperwork before the deadline.
2. Gather Evidence:
   Collect medical records, police reports, photos, and any other documentation relevant to your case.
3. File a Complaint Quickly:
   Your attorney will draft and file a formal complaint with the court to initiate your lawsuit.

Quick Tip: Don’t wait until the last minute—acting early gives your attorney more time to prepare a strong case.

Call Now for a Free Consultation

Understanding the statute of limitations can be confusing, but acting quickly is critical to protecting your rights. At Mattiacci Law, we’re here to guide you through the legal process and ensure you meet every deadline.

Call Mattiacci Law today at 856-219-2481 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you pursue the compensation you deserve before time runs out.

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