How Long Do You Have to File an Injury Claim in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania's deadlines for personal injury claims are strict, and missing one usually ends your case for good. Here's what you need to know.

The Two-Year General Rule

Most Pennsylvania personal-injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of injury. This applies to car crashes, slip-and-falls, dog bites, and most other negligence claims. Miss the deadline, and the court will almost always dismiss your case no matter how strong it is.

The Discovery Rule

Sometimes an injury isn't apparent right away — as with some medical-malpractice or toxic-exposure cases. Pennsylvania's discovery rule can delay the start of the clock until you knew or reasonably should have known of the injury and its cause. But this rule is narrow and heavily litigated, so you should never rely on it without advice.

Special Deadlines and Exceptions

Claims against government entities require much earlier notice — often within six months. Minors generally have until their 20th birthday to file. Medical-malpractice cases face a seven-year statute of repose. Wrongful-death claims run two years from the date of death. These variations make early legal guidance important.

Why Acting Early Helps

Beyond the legal deadline, the practical clock runs faster: witnesses move, video is overwritten, and memories fade. Filing on time is the floor, not the goal. Building a strong claim means preserving evidence quickly, which is why prompt action matters.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.