Wrongful Death Deadline vs. Personal Injury Statute of Limitations
An Oregon family generally has more time than the injured person would have had.
Three years
Wrongful death claims have a three-year limit under ORS 30.020. The timing is more nuanced than a simple three years from injury: it can involve discovery principles and a three-year outer limit after death.
Compared with an injury claim
Most personal injury claims have two years under ORS 12.110, so the family's window is longer.
Public bodies
Under the Tort Claims Act, notice is generally due within one year for wrongful death claims and 180 days for other claims, and the action generally within two years.
Check the facts
Accrual rules, tolling and exceptions can change the deadline, so confirm it early.
A local personal injury attorney can review your claim — many offer a free consultation.
Official sources
This is general information, not legal advice, and the state comparisons above are illustrative, not an exhaustive survey. Confirm how Oregon's rules apply to your specific case with a licensed Oregon attorney.