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What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, the statute of limitations for personal injury is generally 3 years under SDCL § 15-2-14(3).

3 YEARS
Personal Injury · South Dakota
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Personal injury Deadlines in South Dakota

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

In South Dakota, the statute of limitations for personal injury is generally 3 years under SDCL § 15-2-14(3).

When does the clock start for personal injury in South Dakota?

Three years from the date of injury or from discovery of the injury.

Can the South Dakota deadline for personal injury be extended?

Section 15-2-22 tolls during disability with a maximum extension. Note that intentional torts drop to ONE year under § 15-2-15(1) — the shortest such carve-out in the register. Repoint the URL to § 15-2-14.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in South Dakota?

Often, yes. Written notice within 180 days under SDCL § 3-21-2. SDCL § 3-21-2 requires written notice to the public entity within 180 days of the injury. South Dakota also grants the state, counties, cities, townships and school districts broad immunity from damages for neglectful conduct, and state officers and employees…

How does South Dakota compare to other states for personal injury?

South Dakota'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 South Dakota:

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 South Dakota

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