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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in Alaska?

In Alaska, the statute of limitations for wrongful death is generally 2 years under Alaska Stat. § 09.55.580(a).

2 YEARS
Wrongful Death · Alaska
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Wrongful death Deadlines in Alaska

How long do you have to file a wrongful death claim in Alaska?

In Alaska, the statute of limitations for wrongful death is generally 2 years under Alaska Stat. § 09.55.580(a).

When does the clock start for wrongful death in Alaska?

Two years from the date of death.

Can the Alaska deadline for wrongful death be extended?

The wrongful death deadline must be analysed separately from the accrual date of any personal injury claim the deceased held — the two can diverge. Repoint the URL.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in Alaska?

Often, yes. Same 2-year deadline; no short pre-suit notice under Alaska Stat. §§ 09.10.070, 09.50.250. Alaska is one of the few states that does NOT impose a short pre-suit notice deadline for injury claims against the State or a municipality — the ordinary two-year period in AS § 09.10.070 applies. Claims against the State are brought under AS § 09.50.250, whi…

How does Alaska compare to other states for wrongful death?

Alaska's 2 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 50 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for wrongful death ranges from 1 year to 3 years, and 2 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Wrongful Death Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the wrongful death deadline in Alaska:

01 Fatal vehicle or workplace accidents
02 Death from medical negligence
03 Death caused by a defective product
04 Death from criminal or intentional acts
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Other Filing Deadlines in Alaska

Statutes of limitations have exceptions, and courts apply them to specific facts. This page states the general rule. A licensed Alaska attorney can tell you the deadline that applies to your situation.
See every filing deadline in Alaska, or compare wrongful death across all states.
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