Wrongful Death Deadline vs. Personal Injury Statute of Limitations

By the FigureMyTax Editorial Team · How we calculate

A Pennsylvania family has two years, but a government defendant shortens that sharply.

Two years from death

Under 42 Pa.C.S. 5524, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is two years from the date of death.

The survival action

A survival action must be filed within two years of the date of injury.

Compared with an injury claim

Most personal injury claims also have two years under 42 Pa.C.S. 5524.

Government defendants

A claim involving the Commonwealth or a local government unit may require signed written notice within six months.

Medical malpractice

Malpractice has two years, with a discovery rule, and a certificate of merit within 60 days of the complaint.

Official sources

• 42 Pa.C.S. § 5524 — two-year actions

This is general information, not legal advice, and the state comparisons above are illustrative, not an exhaustive survey. Confirm how Pennsylvania's rules apply to your specific case with a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.