Florida's 2023 tort reform legislation made significant changes to the state's personal injury laws, including a critical reduction in the statute of limitations. If you have been injured in Florida, understanding these deadlines is essential.
The New Two-Year Statute of Limitations
Effective March 24, 2023, Florida reduced the statute of limitations for most negligence-based personal injury claims from four years to two years. This means you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit.
This applies to:
- —Car accidents
- —Slip and fall accidents
- —Truck accidents
- —Motorcycle accidents
- —Pedestrian accidents
- —Most other negligence-based injury claims
Exceptions and Special Rules
Some claims have different deadlines:
- —Medical malpractice: two years from when you discovered or should have discovered the injury (with a four-year absolute limit)
- —Claims against government entities: much shorter notice requirements — often 3–6 months
- —Wrongful death: two years from the date of death
- —Product liability: two years from the date of injury
Why You Should Act Quickly — Even Before the Deadline
The statute of limitations is the absolute deadline, but there are many reasons to act quickly:
- 1.Evidence preservation — accident scenes change, surveillance footage is overwritten, and witnesses' memories fade
- 2.Medical documentation — prompt treatment creates a clear record linking your injuries to the accident
- 3.Insurance deadlines — insurance policies often have their own notice requirements
- 4.Investigation time — building a strong case takes time
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you file a lawsuit after the statute of limitations has expired, the defendant will almost certainly move to dismiss your case. Florida courts strictly enforce these deadlines, and missing them typically bars your claim permanently.
Contact an Attorney Immediately
If you have been injured in Florida, do not wait to consult with a personal injury attorney. Contact Kate A Vincent Law Group PLLC at (786) 709-3423 for a free case review. We will evaluate your claim, explain your rights, and ensure you do not miss any critical deadlines.
This article is general information about Florida law and is not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different. Speak with an attorney about your specific situation.