What Is the Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, the statute of limitations for wrongful death is generally 2 years under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 663-3.
Wrongful death Deadlines in Hawaii
How long do you have to file a wrongful death claim in Hawaii?
In Hawaii, the statute of limitations for wrongful death is generally 2 years under Haw. Rev. Stat. § 663-3.
When does the clock start for wrongful death in Hawaii?
Two years from the date of death.
Can the Hawaii deadline for wrongful death be extended?
A federal court held § 663-3 governs all claims arising from the death, running from the date of death (396 F. Supp. 2d 1150).
Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in Hawaii?
Often, yes. Generally 2 years; six-month county notice may apply under Haw. Rev. Stat. §§ 662-4, 46-72. The State Tort Liability Act sets a two-year period in § 662-4. Section 46-72 requires written notice to a county within a short window — commonly reported as six months — for claims arising from county negligence, and § 657-1.5 provides that limitations of ac…
How does Hawaii compare to other states for wrongful death?
Hawaii'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 Hawaii:
