What Is the Statute of Limitations for Product Liability in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for product liability is generally 2 years under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1.
Product liability Deadlines in California
How long do you have to file a product liability claim in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for product liability is generally 2 years under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1.
When does the clock start for product liability in California?
Two years for personal injury caused by a defective product, under the general personal-injury period.
Can the California deadline for product liability be extended?
Property damage from a defective product may instead run three years under § 338. Sale-of-goods warranty claims can fall under Cal. Com. Code § 2725. Discovery principles can delay accrual where the defect and its connection to the harm were not apparent. Mapping of product claims onto § 335.1 is doctrinal rather than expressly statutory — confirm for the specific theory pleaded.
Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in California?
Often, yes. Written claim generally presented within 6 months under Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2. Section 911.2(a) requires a claim for death, injury to person or personal property, or growing crops to be presented within six months of accrual; any other cause of action within one year. Suit generally cannot be filed until the claim is rejected or deemed r…
How does California compare to other states for product liability?
California's 2 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 19 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for product liability ranges from 1 year to 6 years, and 2 years is the most common. Compare all states →
What Does Product Liability Cover?
Situations that typically fall under the product liability deadline in California:
