How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in California? (Statute of Limitations Explained)
The following article is provided by Solum Space Law, APC for general information only and should not be taken as legal advice. Every case is unique—if you have questions about protecting your rights after an injury in Southern California, call our office for a free consultation.
Accidents can change your life in an instant — but the law doesn’t give you unlimited time to act. In California, strict deadlines known as the statute of limitations determine how long you have to file a personal injury claim. Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to compensation entirely.
At Solum Space Law APC, led by attorney Matt Kohanbash, we help clients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and Century City protect their rights and take timely action.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations in California
Two Years for Most Personal Injury Cases
Under California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1, accident victims typically have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit.
Six Months for Government Claims
If your injury involves a city, county, or state agency (for example, a fall on public property or a crash with a city vehicle), you have only six months to file a government claim under Gov. Code §911.2.
The Discovery Rule
In certain cases — such as medical malpractice or toxic exposure — you may not realize you’ve been injured right away. California law allows the clock to start when you “discovered” or reasonably should have discovered the injury.
Learn more about our Personal Injury Services.
Why Timing Matters
Insurance companies understand these deadlines and sometimes use stalling tactics to run out the clock. They may:
Drag out settlement talks
Request unnecessary paperwork
Downplay the seriousness of your injuries
Once the statute of limitations passes, you lose your leverage — even if your case is strong.
Protecting Your Rights with Solum Space Law
At Solum Space Law APC, we:
File claims within strict legal deadlines
Preserve crucial evidence before it disappears
Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
Pursue maximum compensation for your injuries
Types of Personal Injury Cases Impacted
Our firm represents clients across California in cases such as:
Car, motorcycle, and rideshare accidents
Slip-and-fall and premises liability claims
Construction site accidents
Wrongful death cases
Serious or catastrophic injuries
Read more about Matt Kohanbash and his client-focused approach.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If you’ve been injured in Los Angeles County, Beverly Hills, or Century City, act quickly.
Call Solum Space Law today at (310) 405-0014
Visit www.solumspacelaw.com
Serving clients across California
This blog is attorney advertising. The material below is presented by Solum Space Law, APC for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for tailored legal advice. Cases are fact-specific; if you have questions about the value of your claim, contact us for a complimentary consultation.
