How long do you have to sue after an injury in Arizona?
Last checked November 8, 2026
In Arizona you generally have 2 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit, under A.R.S. § 12-542(1). If a city, county or the state is responsible, the deadline can be much shorter: 180 days to file a claim.
Calculate your deadline
Your general deadline would be
This is a general estimate. Exceptions can change it. We do not need your details to show it.
Arizona injury deadlines at a glance
| Situation | Deadline | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Most injuries, including car accidents | 2 years | A.R.S. § 12-542(1) |
| Wrongful death | 2 years | A.R.S. § 12-542(2) |
| Claim against the government (State, cities and other public entities) | 180 days to file a claim | A.R.S. § 12-821.01(A) |
| After the government claim | 1 year to file suit | A.R.S. § 12-821 |
What the law says
“there shall be commenced and prosecuted within two years after the cause of action accrues, and not afterward, the following actions: 1. For injuries done to the person of another”
A.R.S. § 12-542(1)
“shall file claims with the person or persons authorized to accept service for the public entity, public school or public employee as set forth in the Arizona rules of civil procedure within one hundred eighty days after the cause of action accrues.”
A.R.S. § 12-821.01(A)
When does the clock start?
Usually on the day you were hurt. In Arizona, A.R.S. § 12-542(1) sets the period. If an injury was discovered later, or the injured person is a minor, the date can change. Confirm it with a lawyer.
What does not stop the clock
Talking to an adjuster, having an open insurance claim or still being in treatment usually does not stop the deadline to sue. Filing the lawsuit on time or reaching a settlement does.
What happens if you miss it?
Usually the court dismisses the case and you lose the right to be paid, even if your claim is strong. That is why it helps to talk to a lawyer well before the date.
Cities in Arizona
Other states with the same deadline
Sources
- A.R.S. § 12-542(1), Official text, 2026-11-08
- A.R.S. § 12-542(2), Official text, 2026-11-08
- A.R.S. § 12-821.01(A), Official text, 2026-11-08
- A.R.S. § 12-821, Official text, 2026-11-08