Statute of Limitations by Claim Type

Choose the kind of claim to see the deadline in every state.

⚖️
Personal Injury
Car accidents, slips and falls, assault, and other bodily injury claims
1 year – 6 years (median 2 years)
🏥
Medical Malpractice
Errors by doctors, nurses, hospitals, or other healthcare providers
1 year – 5 years (median 2 years)
📄
Written Contract
Breach of a signed written agreement or contract
3 years – 10 years (median 6 years)
🗣️
Oral Contract
Breach of a verbal or handshake agreement
2 years – 10 years (median 4 years)
📰
Defamation
Libel (written) or slander (spoken) false statements causing harm
1 year – 3 years (median 1 year)
🕊️
Wrongful Death
Death caused by another's negligence or wrongful act
1 year – 3 years (median 2 years)
🏠
Property Damage
Damage to real estate, vehicles, or personal property
1 year – 10 years (median 3 years)
🔍
Fraud
Intentional deception causing financial or other harm
2 years – 10 years (median 4 years)
🚶
Slip & Fall
Premises liability claims from slipping, tripping, or falling on someone's property
1 year – 6 years (median 2 years)
🐕
Dog Bite
Injuries from dog bites or other animal attacks
1 year – 6 years (median 2 years)
⚠️
Product Liability
Injuries caused by defective, dangerous, or improperly labeled products
1 year – 6 years (median 2 years)
⚡
Assault & Battery
Civil claims for intentional physical harm or threats of harm
1 year – 6 years (median 2 years)
🛡️
Sexual Assault
Civil claims for sexual assault, abuse, or harassment
2 years – 20 years (median 3 years)
🏥
Nursing Home Abuse
Neglect, abuse, or exploitation of residents in nursing homes and care facilities
1 year – 6 years (median 2 years)
⚠️ Legal Disclaimer: This page is general legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and exceptions apply. Confirm the current rule with a licensed attorney in your state.