- Michael Burry
- Sep 17, 2025
If you miss a filing deadline in Pennsylvania, your chances of filing an injury claim may vanish even though your case is strong. If you’ve been hurt in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh or anywhere in Pennsylvania, you need to act fast and in the right way.
The statute of limitations is for car accidents, slip and fall, wrongful death, product defects, and other injury claims. If you miss the deadline for filing the claim, it may nullify your chances of pursuing compensation. However, there are certain exceptions such as if you are a minor or if the injury did not surface immediately after the accident. Therefore, it is essential to know the deadline that will help to protect your rights.
Key Statutes & Time Limits in Pennsylvania
The filing deadlines for different types of injury claims under Pennsylvania law are as follows:
| Type of Personal Injury Claim | Time Limit | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Car accidents happening out of negligence | 2 years from date of acciden | 42 Pa. C.S. § 5524(2) |
| Slip & fall or premises liability | 2 years from date of injury | Same general rule under § 5524(2) |
| Wrongful death | 2 years from date of death | § 5524(2) |
| Intentional torts such as assault, false imprisonment, etc. | 2 years from incident | § 5524(1) |
Exceptions: When the Deadline Can Be Extended
Some exceptions when the deadline can be extended are as follows:
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Minor victims: If the injured victim is less than 18 years, the time of filing the claim will start from the date when they are 18 years.
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Delayed discovery: If the victim did not surface the injury immediately at the time of the accident, the timeline of filing the claim will start when the injury is discovered.
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Defendant out of state or hiding or false identity: According to § 5532, the statute of limitations will be paused if the victim is out of state or is hiding or is using a false name .
Why Acting On Time Is Important?
It is important to act on time after the injury or accident due to the following reasons:
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Evidence may fade with time such as photographs will disappear, and witnesses may forget what information is given.
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You must keep medical records and medical bills as it may help to strengthen your claim.
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The statute of limitations are strict as if there is delay in filing the claim, your chance may nullify to pursue the compensation.
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The insurance companies may use this delay against you. Therefore, acting quickly may strengthen your claim.
Tips to Avoid Missing the Deadline
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Mark your calendar with the date of injury or death.
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Seek medical attention immediately and keep all medical records.
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Don’t wait to speak with a lawyer.
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Check if any exception applies such as minor, delayed discovery, or defendant absent.
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Document everything such as photos, witness names, police reports.
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Get a written timeline from your doctor for when the symptoms of the injury will begin. It may help in the cases of delayed discovery of injuries.
With every passing day, your case will weaken and after two years, the chances to pursue compensation will nullify. Speak with a Pennsylvania personal injury lawyer today to secure your rights before it’s too late.
Don’t risk missing important deadlines. A personal injury attorney may provide you with the information you need to understand the statute of limitations, because only they can help with gathering evidence and safeguard your legal rights. Contact a Pennsylvania personal injury lawyer today for free consultation and take the first step toward the compensation you deserve.
FAQs About Pennsylvania Personal Injury Deadlines
1. What is the statute of limitations for personal injury in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, you have 2 years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim, according to 42 Pa. C.S. § 5524.
2. Are there exceptions to the personal injury deadline in Pennsylvania?
Yes, the clock may pause if the injured person is a minor or the injury was not discovered immediately after the accident known as delayed discovery.
3. How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania?
According to the Pennsylvania law, you must file a wrongful death claim within 2 years of the date of death.
4. What happens if I miss the injury claim deadline in Pennsylvania?
If you file too late, the court will likely dismiss your case, and you won’t be able to pursue compensation.