How long you have to sue after a car accident in Florida

The question this answers: “How long do I have to sue after a car accident in Florida?”

Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident in Florida

The deadline depends on what you are suing for:

Bodily injury (personal injury): You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file suit [1]. This is a strict deadline—missing it typically bars your claim forever, so prompt action is important.

Property damage to your vehicle: The same 2-year rule applies [1], measured from the date of the accident.

Important note on Florida's no-fault system: Florida is a no-fault auto state, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance pays your medical bills and lost wages first, regardless of who caused the accident. You can sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering only if you meet a "serious injury" threshold. That lawsuit, if you bring one, must still comply with the 2-year deadline [1].

Exceptions exist for cases involving fraudulent concealment or intentional misrepresentation, which can extend the deadline, but those are uncommon and require specific proof [1].

Because the 2-year period is absolute and difficult to extend, a Florida auto-accident attorney can advise on whether you have a viable claim and help ensure you meet the filing deadline—most offer free consultations.