How long do I have to make a personal injury claim?

What the Law Says

The time limit for bringing a personal injury claim in the UK is set by the Limitation Act 1980. This law defines how long you have to start court proceedings after an injury occurs — or after you become aware it was serious enough to pursue a claim.

Under section 11 of the Limitation Act 1980, the general limitation period for personal injury claims is three years.

This period usually starts on the date the accident happened. However, if the injured person did not immediately realise the injury was serious or linked to someone else’s negligence, the clock may start on the 'date of knowledge' — the date they first knew (or could reasonably have known) that the injury was significant and caused by another’s act or omission.

For children, the three-year period does not begin until they turn 18 — meaning they have until their 21st birthday to issue a claim.

Statutory Text

An action founded on tort shall not be brought after the expiration of three years from the date on which the cause of action accrued.

— Limitation Act 1980, s. 11 — Actions in respect of personal injuries

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