Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Arizona

^{If you’ve been injured in Arizona, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to compensation. However, certain factors like delayed injury discovery, minor victims, or government involvement may change that timeline. An experienced Arizona personal injury attorney can review your case, calculate the exact limitation period, and ensure your claim is filed on time.}

Knowing the statute of limitations for your personal injury is crucial because it determines the timeframe within which you should initiate legal action. If you fail to adhere to the time limits applicable to you, there can be significant consequences. The statute of limitations ranges from one to six years. The personal injury statute of limitations differs from state to state.

You may even lose your right to seeking compensation or your case can be dismissed if you don't file a claim on time. Therefore, being aware of these laws may help protect your legal rights. Promptly seeking legal advice after an injury can help you navigate complexities and make sure a potential lawsuit is filed within the time limit to pursue rightful compensation for damages caused by an accident.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, please note that laws and regulations may vary by jurisdiction and change over time. Therefore, we cannot guarantee the timeliness or accuracy of the legal information provided in this blog. For precise details and guidance on the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in your area, we recommend consulting with a lawyer familiar with the laws of your jurisdiction.

‍

Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Arizona

The statute of limitations is a law that defines how long you have to file a lawsuit after an accident or injury. Once the deadline passes, your right to pursue legal action typically expires — no matter how strong your case may be.

These laws serve a critical purpose: they encourage timely resolution of legal disputes and ensure that evidence, witness memory, and records remain fresh and reliable.

In Arizona, statutes of limitations vary by case type, but for most personal injury claims, including car accidents, slip and falls, and medical malpractice, the standard timeframe is two years from the date of injury.

‍

How the Statute of Limitations Affects Your Right to Compensation

Failing to file your claim within the legal timeframe can have serious consequences. Courts often dismiss late claims, which means you could lose your right to pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

Acting quickly after an injury is essential. Even a small delay could affect your eligibility for compensation.

To protect your rights, consult an Arizona personal injury lawyer who can determine when your statute of limitations begins and whether any exceptions apply.

‍

The Arizona Personal Injury Statute of Limitations Explained

Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-542, most personal injury cases must be filed within two years of the date the injury occurred.

This rule applies to claims involving:

• Motor vehicle accidents (including car, truck, and motorcycle collisions)
• Slip and fall or premises liability cases
• Defective products or product liability
• Medical malpractice
• Wrongful death

However, this general two-year rule has several exceptions depending on who was involved and when the injury was discovered.

‍

Key Exceptions and Extensions

Certain situations can extend or shorten the filing period in Arizona. Here are the most common:

1. Claims Against Government EntitiesIf your claim involves a state, county, or municipal agency, you must file a formal notice of claim within 180 days of the injury. After that, you typically have one year to file a lawsuit.
2. Minors and Legally Disabled VictimsIf the injured person is under 18 or legally incapacitated, the statute of limitations may be paused (“tolled”) until they reach legal age or regain capacity.
3. Discovery RuleSome injurie, like those from medical negligence or toxic exposure are not immediately apparent. Arizona law allows the statute of limitations to begin when the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.
4. Product LiabilityInjury caused by a defective product typically falls under a two-year limit, but additional exceptions may apply if the product caused harm more than 12 years after it was first sold.
5. Wrongful DeathIn wrongful death cases, the two-year clock generally starts from the date of death, not the date of the initial injury.

‍

How Missing the Deadline Affects Your Case

If you miss the applicable deadline, the court may permanently bar your claim, leaving you with no legal recourse even if the other party was clearly at fault.

This is why most victims choose to work with a personal injury attorney early in the process. A lawyer can:

• Review your situation and determine your exact filing deadline.
• Gather and preserve critical evidence.
• Handle complex paperwork and negotiations with insurers.
• File your claim before the statute expires.

By acting promptly, you safeguard your right to fair compensation and ensure that your case is filed correctly under Arizona law.

‍

Why Consulting an Attorney Matters

Arizona’s laws can be complex — especially when exceptions or overlapping deadlines apply. An experienced personal injury attorney can explain how these laws affect your case, help you navigate procedural requirements, and protect you from costly mistakes.

At Lawfty, our legal team understands the urgency behind filing deadlines. We’ve guided countless Arizona residents through injury claims, ensuring their rights remain protected from start to finish.

Our attorneys provide:

• Free consultations and case evaluations
• Deadline tracking to prevent late filings
• Personalized legal strategy tailored to your situation

Don't let the statute of limitations expire before exploring your legal options. Call a personal injury attorney in Arizona today to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

‍

Statutes of Limitations for Other States

If you’re comparing timelines or were injured while traveling, you can refer to our detailed guide on statute of limitations for car accidents by state. Knowing each state’s filing rules can help you make informed decisions, especially if multiple jurisdictions are involved.

‍

Seek Legal Help Before It’s Too Late

Don’t wait until your filing window is about to close. A short consultation with a lawyer can determine whether your claim is still valid and what steps you should take next.

At Lawfty, we can help you:

• Confirm your case’s filing deadline
• Collect and organize essential documentation
• Negotiate with insurance companies
• File a claim within the correct timeframe

Reach out today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

‍

FAQs on Arizona’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury

1. What is the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Arizona?
In most cases, you have two years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit in Arizona.

2. What happens if I miss the filing deadline?
Missing the deadline may permanently bar you from filing your claim. It’s crucial to consult a personal injury lawyer early to determine your specific deadline.

3. Are there exceptions to the statute of limitations in Arizona?
Yes. Exceptions exist for minors, disabled individuals, government-related claims, and injuries discovered later under the discovery rule.

4. How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Arizona?
A wrongful death claim must generally be filed within two years from the date of death.

5. Can a lawyer help me calculate my filing deadline?
Absolutely. A personal injury attorney can review your situation, apply relevant laws, and make sure your claim is filed before time runs out.

‍