Texas Personal Injury Statute of Limitations Overview | Marco Bass Injury and Accident Lawyers
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Texas Personal Injury Statute of Limitations Overview

Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §16.003, most personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the date the injury occurred. A wrongful death claim carries the same two-year deadline, running from the date of death. Missing this deadline generally bars the claim permanently, regardless of its merits.

The Two-Year Rule

Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §16.003 sets a two-year limitations period for personal injury lawsuits, generally running from the date the injury occurred — for a car crash, that's usually the day of the collision.

Wrongful Death Deadlines

Wrongful death claims also carry a two-year deadline, but it runs from the date of death rather than the date of the underlying incident.

Claims Against Government Entities Are Different

Under the Texas Tort Claims Act (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code §101.101), claims against a governmental unit generally require formal written notice within six months of the incident — far shorter than the standard two-year filing deadline, and missing it can bar the claim even if the two-year deadline hasn't passed.

Exceptions Can Extend or Pause the Clock

Certain circumstances — including claims involving minors, legal disability, or injuries not immediately discoverable — can toll or extend the standard deadline. These exceptions are fact-specific and shouldn't be assumed without legal advice.

Don't Wait to Find Out

Because some deadlines (like government notice requirements) are much shorter than the general two-year rule, it's best to consult an attorney well before you assume time has run out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Texas?

Generally two years from the date of the injury under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §16.003, though exceptions can apply — consult an attorney to confirm your specific timeline.

What if the at-fault party is a government agency?

Claims against government entities typically require formal notice within six months under the Texas Tort Claims Act, which is much shorter than the standard two-year deadline — prompt legal advice is especially important.

Have a Case-Specific Question?

This page is general information, not individualized legal advice. Start a free case review to discuss your specific situation.

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Last reviewed: August 27, 2026. Sources: Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code §16.003 (Two-Year Limitations) · Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code §101.101 (Tort Claims Act Notice)