Navigating the Statute of Limitations: Essential Deadlines for Filing Your Claim

When you’ve been injured in an accident, time is an important legal factor that can determine whether you can even pursue compensation. A statute of limitations sets strict timelines for filing personal injury claims, and missing deadlines can irrevocably damage your case.

At Cohen, Feeley, Altemose, Berg & McKarski, we regularly help clients who are surprised to learn how quickly these deadlines approach. In Pennsylvania, almost all personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the injury date. While that may sound like a long time, those two years can pass quickly when you’re focused on medical treatment, recovery, and getting your life back on track.

Waiting too long can also weaken your case in other ways. Evidence may disappear, witnesses’ memories can fade, and important records may become harder to obtain. Acting early gives your legal team time to investigate, preserve proof, and build the strongest possible claim.

Some cases involve exceptions, such as claims involving minors or delayed discovery of injuries. These situations can extend deadlines, but they are complex and must be handled carefully. That’s why consulting an attorney early is always the safest approach.

Understanding and respecting filing deadlines protects your right to seek justice and financial recovery.

Here are the key things to remember regarding the statute of limitations:

• Most Pennsylvania personal injury claims have a two-year deadline
• Missing the deadline can permanently bar your case
• Early action helps preserve evidence and witness testimony
• Certain exceptions may apply in limited situations