Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations outlines how long a person has to take legal action for damages resulting from a personal injury. Under most circumstances, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of injury, except in special circumstances, which may include:
- Delayed onset of symptoms: Sometimes an injury is not immediately apparent. This is often the case for medical malpractice claims. When symptoms of an injury do not show up until a later date, the statute of limitations clock may not begin to run until the onset of symptoms or the time where they should have been discovered.
- Missing defendant: Sometimes you cannot locate the at-fault party. When this happens, a court may grant an extension of time to take legal action until you can find the other party.
- The plaintiff is underage: A parent may file a legal claim for their child. However, if they do not do so, the statute of limitations will generally not begin until that child turns 18.