How long do you have to sue after an injury in Louisiana?
Last checked November 8, 2026
In Louisiana you generally have 2 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit, under La. Civ. Code art. 3493.1.
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Louisiana injury deadlines at a glance
| Situation | Deadline | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Most injuries, including car accidents | 2 years | La. Civ. Code art. 3493.1 |
| Wrongful death | 1 year from death or 2 years from injury, whichever is longer | La. Civ. Code art. 2315.2(B) |
What the law says
“Delictual actions are subject to a liberative prescription of two years.”
La. Civ. Code art. 3493.1
When does the clock start?
Usually on the day you were hurt. In Louisiana, La. Civ. Code art. 3493.1 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.
Other states with the same deadline
Sources
- La. Civ. Code art. 3493.1, Official text, 2026-11-08
- La. Civ. Code art. 2315.2(B), Official text, 2026-11-08