Home› State Guides› West Virginia› Personal Injury

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in West Virginia?

In West Virginia, the statute of limitations for personal injury is generally 2 years under W. Va. Code § 55-2-12(b).

2 YEARS
Personal Injury · West Virginia
✓ Verified Checked Sep 2026

Personal injury Deadlines in West Virginia

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

In West Virginia, the statute of limitations for personal injury is generally 2 years under W. Va. Code § 55-2-12(b).

When does the clock start for personal injury in West Virginia?

Two years for personal injury.

Can the West Virginia deadline for personal injury be extended?

For a tort claim the period starts when the cause of action arises and the plaintiff knows, or by reasonable diligence should know, of the injury and its cause. Section 55-2-15 gives eighteen years after reaching adulthood for sexual abuse claims.

Is the deadline different if the claim is against the government in West Virginia?

Often, yes. Generally 2 years; political subdivision limits apply under W. Va. Code §§ 29-12A-6, 55-2-12. The West Virginia Governmental Tort Claims and Insurance Reform Act, ch. 29-12A, governs claims against political subdivisions and sets a two-year period in § 29-12A-6, alongside immunity provisions and damages caps. West Virginia does not impose a short unive…

How does West Virginia compare to other states for personal injury?

West Virginia's 2 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 West Virginia:

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
Advertisement
Legal Forms

Other Filing Deadlines in West Virginia

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

Get Help in West Virginia

Fill out the form below and a legal resource in West Virginia may be able to assist with your situation.

* Required. Phone, text and email consent are optional.