How Long Do I Have To File a Claim in Pennsylvania?

The general rule

Pennsylvania sets a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, running from the date of injury. Wrongful death claims generally run two years from the date of death.

Situations that change the date

Several categories do not follow the plain two-year rule.

• Claims against a government agency generally require written notice within six months
• The discovery rule can delay the start where the injury or its cause was not reasonably knowable
• Claims involving minors are treated differently
• Medical malpractice claims are also subject to a statute of repose

Why waiting costs more than time

Even where the deadline is years away, witnesses move, footage is overwritten and vehicles are repaired. Deadlines are the outer limit, not the plan.