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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for personal injury is generally 3 years under Mass. Gen. Laws c. 260, § 2A.

3 YEARS
Personal Injury · Massachusetts
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Personal injury Deadlines in Massachusetts

How long do you have to file a personal injury claim in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for personal injury is generally 3 years under Mass. Gen. Laws c. 260, § 2A.

When does the clock start for personal injury in Massachusetts?

Three years from accrual. Section 2A covers actions of tort generally, so most negligence claims sit here.

Can the Massachusetts deadline for personal injury be extended?

Massachusetts applies a discovery rule: accrual is generally when the plaintiff knew or should have known of the injury and its cause. Section 7 tolls for minors and incapacitated persons. A claim against a public employer requires presentment within two years under c. 258, § 4.

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

Often, yes. Presentment within 2 years under Mass. Gen. Laws c. 258, § 4. The Massachusetts Tort Claims Act requires a claim to be presented in writing to the executive officer of the public employer within two years of accrual, and suit to be commenced within three years. The presentment requirement is strictly enforced and must go…

How does Massachusetts compare to other states for personal injury?

Massachusetts's 3 years is in the middle of the range nationally. Across the 51 jurisdictions with a verified figure, the deadline for personal injury ranges from 1 year to 6 years, and 2 years is the most common. Compare all states →

What Does Personal Injury Cover?

Situations that typically fall under the personal injury deadline in Massachusetts:

01 Car and motorcycle accidents
02 Slip-and-fall and premises injuries
03 Dog bites and animal attacks
04 Injuries from another's negligence
05 Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
06 Workplace injuries not covered by workers' comp
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Other Filing Deadlines in Massachusetts

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