How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Pennsylvania?
Q: What is the time limit to file a personal injury claim in Pennsylvania?
A: In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations, and it’s outlined in 42 Pa. C.S. § 5524. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation—no matter how strong your case is.
Q: Does the clock always start on the date of the incident?
A: In most cases, yes – the two-year period starts on the day the incident occurred. However, there are exceptions:
- If medical malpractice wasn’t discovered right away, the “discovery rule” may allow the clock to start when you reasonably should have discovered the harm.
- If the injured person is a minor (under 18), the two-year clock doesn’t start until their 18th birthday. They typically have two years from their 18th birthdays to file suit.
Q: What happens if I miss the deadline?
A: If you file your lawsuit after the statute of limitations expires, the defendant can ask the court to dismiss your case – and in most cases, the court will. This is why it’s critical to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after your injury.
Q: When should I contact a personal injury lawyer?
A: The sooner, the better. Even though you may have two years, evidence can fade, witnesses can disappear, and insurance companies may try to delay or deny your claim. Working with an experienced injury lawyer like Rand Spear – The Accident Lawyer ensures that:
- Your case is filed on time
- You preserve key evidence
- You avoid costly mistakes
Q: How can Rand Spear help me with deadlines and filing requirements?
A: Our team handles the entire legal process – from the first investigation to filing your case in court if needed. We:
- Identify the correct statute of limitations for your specific case
- Handle government notice deadlines
- Track all critical dates and filings
- Push for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to
Let us worry about the legal deadlines so you can focus on healing.
Don’t Wait – Contact Rand Spear Today
If you’ve been injured in Pennsylvania, don’t risk missing your chance at justice. Call Rand Spear now or fill out our free case evaluation form to protect your rights and learn what your case is worth.
Call or text (215) 985-2424 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
