“I wanted to take a moment to sincerely thank you for everything you did to help me with my case. Your knowledge, diligence, and attention to details made a meaningful difference in helping establish the information needed to support my VA rating. You were thorough and responsive, and you never made us feel like our questions or concerns were a burden. Most of all, we are grateful for the compassion you showed us. Thank you again for your professionalism, your compassion, and for treating us like people rather than simply another case.”
Quick answer: Most California personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the injury under Code of Civil Procedure §335.1, and claims against a city, county, or other public entity generally require a written government claim within six months under Government Code §911.2. This tool estimates that date from the incident date you enter. Exceptions such as tolling for minors or delayed discovery can change it, so confirm any deadline with an attorney.
Two years from the date of injury for most negligence claims. (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §335.1)
Frequently asked questions
What is the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in California?
Most California personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of injury under Code of Civil Procedure §335.1. Claims against a public entity require a written government claim within six months under Government Code §911.2.
Can the deadline ever be extended?
Sometimes. Tolling can apply for injured minors, for a defendant who is out of state, or under the delayed-discovery rule when an injury could not reasonably have been discovered right away. Whether an exception applies is a fact-specific legal question.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
A claim filed after the statute of limitations expires is normally dismissed regardless of how strong the underlying facts are. That is why the date should be confirmed with an attorney rather than estimated.
Does negotiating with an insurance company pause the clock?
No. Ongoing settlement discussions do not stop the statute of limitations from running. Only filing suit within the deadline preserves the claim.
Confirm your deadline — free call
Law Offices of Ronald B. Laba, APC · 217 Civic Center Dr #7, Vista, CA 92084
General information about California law, not legal advice. Using this tool does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Us
Get Your Free Consultation
Don't wait to get the legal help you need. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation about your personal injury case.
Assistant: 👋 Hi, we help accident victims understand their rights — No Fees Unless We Win.
What type of accident were you involved in?
Not legal advice. Chatting does not create an attorney-client relationship.
San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys
Trusted Personal Injury Law Firm - Law Offices of Ronald B. Laba
The Law Offices of Ronald B. Laba is a San Diego personal injury law firm practicing since 1984, representing accident victims. Attorney Ronald B. Laba has practiced injury law since 1984. We handle car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, wrongful death, slip and fall, dog bites, and all types of personal injury cases. Free consultation available 24/7. You pay nothing unless we win. Call (760) 940-6231 today. Located at 217 Civic Center Dr #7, Vista, CA 92084, we serve all of San Diego County including Vista, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Escondido, and surrounding areas.
