Fla. Stat. § 95.11

The Personal Injury
Statute of Limitations

Florida cut the deadline to file most injury lawsuits in half — from four years to two. Miss it, and your claim is gone. Here is the current rule and its exceptions.

Attorney-Reviewed Statute Resource
Reviewed by Christopher Walsh, Personal Injury Trial Attorney (Fla. Bar #127459). Last reviewed: June 2026

Four Years Became Two

The 2023 tort reform law (HB 837) made one change every injured person needs to know: it cut the statute of limitations for general negligence from four years to two. Under the amended § 95.11, most personal injury claims — including car accidents — must now be filed within two years of the injury.

The Governing Statute
Fla. Stat. § 95.11 — Limitations of Actions
"An action founded on negligence [must be commenced within] 2 years. [This shortened period applies to causes of action accruing after March 24, 2023.]"
Read the full statute on Online Sunshine →

This applies to causes of action accruing after March 24, 2023. Claims that arose before that date generally kept the old four-year window.

Deadlines That Differ

Key Injury Deadlines in Florida
General negligence / car accidents: 2 years (post-HB 837).

Medical malpractice: Generally 2 years from discovery (unchanged), with an overall repose limit.

Wrongful death: Generally 2 years.

Claims against a government entity: Special notice rules and shorter windows (§ 768.28).

There are exceptions that can pause ("toll") the clock — such as a claimant who is a minor or the defendant concealing themselves — but you should never count on them.

Why Acting Early Matters

Two years passes quickly when you are recovering from an injury. And the deadline is only part of the picture — evidence fades, witnesses move, and insurers use delay against you. Investigating early, while the scene and records are fresh, is often what makes or breaks a claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Florida?
For most negligence claims accruing after March 24, 2023, you have 2 years under the amended § 95.11 — cut from the old 4-year deadline by the HB 837 tort reform. Some claims, like those against government entities, have different and shorter rules.
Did Florida change the personal injury deadline?
Yes. The 2023 HB 837 tort reform cut the statute of limitations for general negligence from four years to two years, for causes of action accruing after March 24, 2023. This is one of the most significant recent changes in Florida injury law.
What happens if I miss the statute of limitations in Florida?
If you file after the deadline, the court will almost certainly dismiss your case and you lose the right to recover — no matter how strong the claim. That is why it is critical to consult an attorney well before the two years runs.

Charged Under This Statute?

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This page summarizes Fla. Stat. § 95.11 for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Statutes change; while this page is reviewed by a licensed Florida attorney, always verify the current text on the official Online Sunshine source or consult an attorney about your specific situation. Serving Martin, St. Lucie, Palm Beach, Indian River, and Okeechobee Counties.