What Is the Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, the statute of limitations for wrongful death is generally 1 year under KRS §§ 413.140(1)(a), 413.180.
Wrongful death Deadlines in Kentucky
How long do you have to file a wrongful death claim in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, the statute of limitations for wrongful death is generally 1 year under KRS §§ 413.140(1)(a), 413.180. The full rule is: 1 Year (up to 2 via § 413.180).
When does the clock start for wrongful death in Kentucky?
One year, but the personal representative gets one year from their appointment — and appointment is treated as no later than one year after death, so the outer limit is two years from the death.
Can the Kentucky deadline for wrongful death be extended?
Claims against the Commonwealth before the Board of Claims are stricter: one year from death, regardless of when a representative is appointed (Gray v. Commonwealth). A motor vehicle death may fall under the two-year no-fault period.
Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in Kentucky?
Often, yes. Generally the underlying period; Board of Claims for state under KRS §§ 65.200 et seq., 49.040. Kentucky does not impose a single short notice-of-claim deadline. Claims against the Commonwealth go to the Board of Claims under KRS ch. 49 with its own one-year period and damages caps. Cities and counties retain immunity for governmental functions under the…
How does Kentucky compare to other states for wrongful death?
Kentucky's 1 year is among the shortest in the country. 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 Kentucky:
