How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is typically three years from the date of the accident. This means you have up to three years to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for injuries caused by someone else’s negligence. However, some cases have different deadlines.

For example, medical malpractice claims often have a shorter time limit, usually two and a half years from the date of the malpractice or from when the injury was discovered. Cases involving government entities—such as injuries caused by a city-owned bus or a hazardous condition on public property—have even stricter deadlines, often requiring a formal notice of claim within 90 days of the incident.

Because these deadlines vary depending on the type of case, it’s essential to speak with a Long Island personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Missing the statute of limitations could mean losing your right to seek compensation altogether.