Utah Personal Injury Statutes of Limitations: If you’ve been injured in an accident in Utah, time is not on your side. The law gives you a strict deadline—called the statute of limitations—to file a lawsuit. Miss it, and you could lose your right to compensation forever.
This guide breaks down Utah’s personal injury deadlines, exceptions, and expert tips to protect your claim.
Recommended: What Is a Maritime Injury?
What Is a Statute of Limitations?
A statute of limitations is a legal time limit to file a lawsuit. Once it expires, courts typically dismiss your case—no matter how strong it is.
Why Do These Deadlines Exist?
- Evidence fades – Witnesses forget details, documents get lost.
- Fairness – Defendants shouldn’t face lawsuits from decades ago.
- Efficiency – Courts need timely cases to operate smoothly.
Example: If you’re hurt in a car crash in 2024, Utah gives you 4 years to sue. If you wait until 2029, your case will likely be thrown out.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Utah?
| Type of Injury Case | Utah Deadline |
|---|---|
| Car accidents | 4 years (Utah Code § 78B-2-307) |
| Slip and fall injuries | 4 years |
| Medical malpractice | 2 years (from discovery of injury) |
| Wrongful death | 2 years (from date of death) |
| Government claims (e.g., city/county accidents) | 1 year (special notice required) |
Key Exceptions
- Minors – The clock starts at age 18 for child injury cases.
- Delayed discovery – If you didn’t know you were hurt (e.g., hidden medical errors), the deadline may extend.
- Defendant leaves Utah – If the at-fault party moves away, the time they’re gone may not count.
Also read: Why Is My Car Accident Settlement Taking So Long?
What Factors Can Impact the Statute of Limitations?
1. Government Claims Have Shorter Deadlines
If your injury involves a city bus, public property, or a police car, you must file a notice within 1 year—or lose your right to sue.
Example: If you slip on ice at a Utah DMV, you must act fast.
2. Medical Malpractice Rules Are Different
- 2-year limit from when you discovered (or should have discovered) the injury.
- No case can be filed more than 4 years after the mistake happened, even if you didn’t know.
3. Wrongful Death Cases Have Strict Timelines
Families only get 2 years from the date of death to file a lawsuit.
How Can I Avoid Running Out of Time?
Take These Steps Now
- See a doctor immediately – Delayed treatment weakens your case.
- Gather evidence fast – Get police reports, witness statements, and photos before they disappear.
- Talk to a lawyer early – An attorney can file necessary paperwork before deadlines pass.
- Watch for exceptions – If your case involves fraud, minors, or government entities, special rules apply.
Don’t Make These Mistakes
- Assuming insurance will pay without a lawsuit – Adjusters may drag out talks until time runs out.
- Waiting to see if pain goes away – Some injuries (like whiplash) worsen over time.
- Trusting the other side’s promises – Only a court filing protects your rights.
What If the Deadline Passed?
In rare cases, a judge may allow a late claim if:
- You were mentally incapacitated.
- The defendant hid evidence of fault.
- You received incorrect legal advice.
But don’t count on exceptions—act fast to preserve your rights.
Final Thoughts
Utah’s personal injury deadlines are strict, but you can protect your claim by acting quickly. If you’ve been hurt:
- Document everything (photos, medical records, bills).
- Consult a lawyer within months—not years.
- Never assume you have more time than the law allows.
Need help? A Utah personal injury attorney can ensure deadlines are met and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can the statute of limitations be extended in Utah?
Rarely—only for minors, hidden injuries, or fraud. Never rely on extensions.
2. What happens if I file late?
Your case will likely be dismissed, and you’ll lose compensation rights.
3. Does the clock start at the accident date or when I discover injuries?
Usually at the accident date, but medical malpractice cases start at discovery.
4. How long do I have to sue a government agency in Utah?
Just 1 year—and you must file a formal notice first.
5. Should I wait until I finish medical treatment to sue?
No! File early—you can update medical records later. Waiting risks missing deadlines.
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