How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Pennsylvania?

Most Pennsylvania lawsuits seeking damages for personal injury or wrongful death must be filed within two years. The date the clock begins to run can depend on the type of claim and when the injury and its cause were or reasonably should have been discovered. Missing the applicable deadline can prevent recovery even when the underlying claim is strong.
Do not assume that every case receives two full years. Claims involving government units may require written notice within six months, and special rules can apply to minors, medical malpractice, latent injuries, out-of-state events, or defendants who cannot be located. Because deadline analysis is fact-specific, speak with a Pennsylvania personal injury lawyer as soon as possible rather than calculating the date on your own.