The statute of limitations is one of the most important — and most misunderstood — parts of a California personal injury case. If you miss the deadline, you lose your right to compensation forever, no matter how strong your case is.
This guide breaks down California’s filing deadlines, exceptions that can extend your time, and how Infinity Law Group protects your claim from being denied on a technicality.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in California?
The statute of limitations is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit.In California, most personal injury cases must be filed within two years from the date of the injury.
If you miss this deadline, the court will dismiss your case — and the insurance company will refuse to pay.
California’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases
General Personal Injury Claims
2 years from the date of the injury.
This applies to:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Dog bites
- Slip‑and‑fall accidents
- Rideshare injuries
- Assault‑related injuries
If you were injured in any of these situations, you can learn more on ourPersonal Injury page:https://www.infinitylawca.com/personal-injury (infinitylawca.com in Bing)
Property Damage Claims
If your vehicle or property was damaged, you have:
3 years from the date of the damage.
This often applies to:
- Vehicle repairs
- Total loss claims
- Damage to personal belongings
Claims Against Government Entities
If your injury involves a government agency — such as a city bus, government vehicle, or unsafe public property — the deadline is much shorter.
You must file a government claim within:
- 6 months of the injury
If the government denies your claim, you then have:
- 6 months to file a lawsuit
Government claims are extremely strict. Infinity Law Group handles these quickly to protect your rights.
Medical Malpractice Claims
Medical malpractice has its own rules.
You must file within:
- 1 year from the date you discovered the injuryor
- 3 years from the date the injury occurred
Whichever comes first.
Wrongful Death Claims
Wrongful death cases must be filed within:
- 2 years from the date of death
Learn more on ourWrongful Death page:
Exceptions That Can Extend the Deadline
California law includes several exceptions that may give victims more time.
1. The Discovery Rule
If you didn’t know you were injured — or didn’t know the cause — the clock may start when you discovered the injury.
Common in:
- Toxic exposure cases
- Medical malpractice
- Hidden injuries
2. Minors (Under 18)
If the victim is a minor, the statute of limitations may be paused (“tolled”) until they turn 18.
3. Defendant Leaves the State
If the at‑fault party leaves California, the deadline may be extended.
4. Mental Incapacity
If the victim is mentally incapacitated, the statute may be paused.
Infinity Law Group evaluates every possible exception to ensure your case is protected.
Why Filing Early Is Critical
Even though you technically have time, waiting is dangerous.
Evidence disappears
- Surveillance footage is deleted
- Witnesses forget details
- Vehicles get repaired
- Physical evidence fades
Insurance companies delay on purpose
They hope you miss the deadline so they don’t have to pay.
Medical documentation weakens over time
Gaps in treatment reduce your settlement value.
How Infinity Law Group Protects Your Right to File
We take immediate action to preserve your claim.
1. Filing all required notices on time
Especially for government claims.
2. Preserving evidence early
Photos, videos, witness statements, medical records.
3. Handling all communication with insurance companies
So they can’t manipulate or delay your case.
4. Preparing your case for litigation
Insurance companies offer more when they know we’re ready to file.
Conclusion
Missing the statute of limitations is one of the most devastating mistakes a personal injury victim can make — but it’s completely avoidable with the right legal team. Infinity Law Group ensures every deadline is met, every document is filed correctly, and your right to compensation is fully protected.
If you were injured in California, contact Infinity Law Group today to protect your claim before time runs out.
