How long do you have to sue after an injury in Ohio?
Last checked November 8, 2026
In Ohio you generally have 2 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit, under Ohio Rev. Code § 2305.10(A). If a city, county or the state is responsible, the deadline can be much shorter: 2 years to sue.
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Your general deadline would be
This is a general estimate. Exceptions can change it. We do not need your details to show it.
Ohio injury deadlines at a glance
| Situation | Deadline | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Most injuries, including car accidents | 2 years | Ohio Rev. Code § 2305.10(A) |
| Wrongful death | 2 years | Ohio Rev. Code § 2125.02 |
| Claim against the government (Political subdivisions) | 2 years to sue | Ohio Rev. Code § 2744.04(A) |
| After the government claim | 2 years to sue | Ohio Rev. Code § 2743.16(A) |
What the law says
“an action for bodily injury or injuring personal property shall be brought within two years after the cause of action accrues.”
Ohio Rev. Code § 2305.10(A)
“shall be brought within two years after the cause of action accrues, or within any applicable shorter period of time for bringing the action provided by the Revised Code.”
Ohio Rev. Code § 2744.04(A)
When does the clock start?
Usually on the day you were hurt. In Ohio, Ohio Rev. Code § 2305.10(A) 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
- Ohio Rev. Code § 2305.10(A), Official text, 2026-11-08
- Ohio Rev. Code § 2125.02, Official text, 2026-11-08
- Ohio Rev. Code § 2744.04(A), Official text, 2026-11-08
- Ohio Rev. Code § 2743.16(A), Official text, 2026-11-08