How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Colorado?

Understanding the Statute of Limitations and Your Legal Timeline

When you're hurt in an accident, seeking medical care and focusing on recovery is your top priority—but knowing how long you have to file a personal injury claim is just as important. In Colorado, there's a legal time limit known as the statute of limitations that dictates how long you have to take legal action. Missing this window could mean losing your right to recover compensation.

Let’s break down how the personal injury statute of limitations works in Colorado, including some key exceptions you need to know.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury in Colorado?

In general, Colorado law gives you two years from the date of the accident or injury to file a personal injury claim.

However, if your injury resulted from a motor vehicle accident, the statute of limitations extends to three years.

This means:

• Slip and fall, workplace injuries, and other non-auto cases = 2 years
• Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents = 3 years

Why These Deadlines Matter

If you try to file a claim after the statute of limitations has passed, the court will likely dismiss your case, and you won’t be able to recover any damages—no matter how serious your injuries are or how strong your evidence is.

That’s why it’s crucial to speak with a Colorado personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident.

Exceptions to the Rule

While the two- and three-year rules apply in most cases, there are a few exceptions that may extend or toll (pause) the deadline:

1. Discovery Rule: If you didn’t know you were injured right away, the clock may start when you reasonably discovered the injury.
2. Injured Minor: If the injured party is under 18, the statute may not begin until they turn 18.
3. Incapacitation: If you were mentally or physically unable to file a claim, the deadline may be extended.
4. Government Entity Involvement: If your injury involves a government agency (like a city bus or dangerous road condition), you must provide written notice within 182 days of the incident—an even shorter timeline than the standard statute.

What Happens After You File a Claim?

Filing a personal injury claim is just the first step. Once it’s submitted, your attorney can begin gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and preparing your case for settlement or trial. The earlier you file, the better your chances of preserving key evidence and building a strong case.

Don’t Miss Your Chance to Recover Compensation

Time moves quickly after an injury—and the statute of limitations doesn’t pause for healing or uncertainty. At Chris Parks Law, we help Colorado clients understand their timelines, preserve their rights, and take swift legal action. If you’re unsure how much time you have left to file, don’t guess—contact us for a free consultation.

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