Understanding Arizona's Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases

When you've been injured because of someone else's negligence, time is critical. Arizona law imposes strict deadlines - known as statutes of limitations - that determine how long you have to take legal action. Missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to seek compensation, no matter how compelling your case may be.

A statute of limitations sets a firm deadline for filing legal claims. These deadlines are designed to:

• Preserve the integrity of evidence and the legal process.

• Encourage timely resolution of claims.

• Provide closure to all involved parties.

Missing a Statue of Limitation can result in losing your right to seek compensation, no matter how compelling your case may be.

Standard Statute of Limitations Deadline for Personal Injury

For most personal injury claims in Arizona, you have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. This general rule applies to cases such as:

• Auto accidents

• Slip and fall injuries

• Dog bites

This two-year deadline is outlined in Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-542.

Special Situations and Exceptions

Not all cases follow the standard two-year rule. Here are some key exceptions:

Statute of Limitations for Claims Against Government Entities

If your injury involves a government agency or employee, the timeline is shorter and the process more specific:

• File a notice of claim within 180 days of the injury.

• Consult with an Arizona Personal Injury Attorney ASAP.

See Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-821 and § 12-821.01 for full details.

Cases Involving Minors

For individuals injured before turning 18, the statute of limitations is typically paused ("tolled") until their 18th birthday. In most cases, they’ll have until age 20 to file a claim.

To avoid losing your right to compensation:

1. Act quickly: Consult with an attorney as soon as possible after your injury.

2. Keep documentation: Save medical records, accident reports, and any correspondence with insurers.

3. Know special deadlines: Government claims and certain other cases have shorter timelines.

4. Don’t rely on negotiations alone: The clock keeps ticking even if you’re in discussions with an insurance company.

This is an advertisement. The information in this post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.