Free Tool · Statute of Limitations
How long do you have to file?
The clock started the day of the accident. Find out how much time you have left.
Enter the date of your accident and the state where it happened. We'll show you how much time you have left to file a personal injury lawsuit — and if you're close to the deadline, we'll tell you exactly what to do next.
Enter your accident date above to see your remaining time.
Not legal advice. Special shorter periods apply to claims against government entities, wrongful death, medical malpractice, and certain product liability cases. Never rely solely on this tool — get a real opinion from an attorney.
How the deadline actually works.
Every state limits how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit after an accident. Miss the window, and the case is over — no matter how strong the evidence is, no matter how serious the injury was, no matter how clearly the other side was at fault.
In Rhode Island, most personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the date of the incident under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-14 [FIRM TO VERIFY]. Shorter deadlines apply for claims against the state, cities, and towns (often six months to one year).
In Massachusetts, most personal injury claims also have a three-year limit under M.G.L. c. 260 § 2A [FIRM TO VERIFY]. Claims against public entities have shorter "presentment" windows that can cut the practical deadline to months, not years.
Wrongful death, medical malpractice, and certain product liability cases have their own special limitations periods. If you're unsure what category your case falls into, call us — the free consultation is designed to answer exactly this question.
If the deadline is close
Call us today, not tomorrow.
Filing a lawsuit takes time to prepare correctly. If the statute runs in the next 90 days, we need to hear from you now.
This tool provides general information about typical personal injury statutes of limitations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. It is NOT legal advice for your specific case. Various exceptions, tolling provisions, and shorter periods for certain defendants may apply. Do not rely solely on this tool — consult an attorney as soon as possible.