Understanding Pennsylvania’s Statute of Limitations

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1. The Importance of PA’s Statute of Limitations and Your Personal Injury Case

REVIEWED BY

C. William Kenny

September 09, 2023

Board certified by National Board of Trial Advocacy

The Importance of PA’s Statute of Limitations and Your Personal Injury Case

The legal system in Pennsylvania operates under a set of rules and regulations designed to ensure fairness. One of the key components of this system is the statute of limitations, which sets a time limit for bringing legal action. Understanding Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations is crucial for anyone involved in a potential personal injury claim as it can significantly impact their ability to seek legal recourse. In this blog post, we will discuss the details of Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations and why it is important to you.

What is a Statute of Limitations?

A statute of limitations is a law that defines the maximum time period during which a legal action can be initiated. These laws exist to promote timely resolution of disputes, protect defendants from stale claims and ensure that evidence remains reliable and witnesses are available. Statutes of limitations can vary from state to state and depend on the type of legal action involved.

Pennsylvania’s Statute of Limitations

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations can differ depending on the type of legal claim. Here are some common categories of legal claims and their associated statutes of limitations in the state:

1. Personal Injury: In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years. This means that if you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. It is essential to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure your rights are protected.
2. Medical Malpractice: Medical malpractice claims in Pennsylvania have a statute of limitations of two years from the date of the injury or discovery of the injury, with a maximum limit of seven years from the date of the alleged malpractice, regardless of when the injury was discovered.
3. Property Damage: If your property has been damaged due to someone else’s actions, you typically have two years from the date of the damage to file a lawsuit.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations is crucial for victims.  You need to be aware of the applicable time limits to ensure that you file your lawsuit within the allowed time period. Failing to do so can result in your case being dismissed, even if you have a valid claim.

Getting the help you need after an accident.

The statute of limitations is a fundamental aspect of Pennsylvania’s legal system. To navigate the complexities of Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations successfully, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney who can provide guidance to your specific situation. 

If you or a loved one are in need of legal assistance, contact the personal injury attorneys of Berger and Green for a free evaluation of your case.