Florida Car Accident Deadlines (Statute of Limitations)
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Florida Car Accident Deadlines
Updated 2026-10-29 · General information, not legal advice.
A statute of limitations is the deadline for filing a lawsuit. Miss it and the claim may be barred for good, no matter how strong it is.
A statute of limitations is the deadline for filing a lawsuit.
The 2023 change
Florida's 2023 tort reform law (HB 837) shortened the general deadline for negligence claims, including most car accident injury claims, from four years to two years for causes of action arising after March 24, 2023. Crashes before that date are generally still subject to the old four-year period.
Other deadlines to know
- PIP treatment: initial medical care generally within 14 days of the crash.
- Wrongful death: generally two years from the date of death.
- Claims against government entities: written notice is usually required before suing, with special time limits.
- Insurance policy notice: most policies require prompt notice of a crash or claim.
Comparative fault changed too
The same 2023 law moved Florida to modified comparative negligence. A person found more than 50% at fault for their own injuries generally cannot recover damages from others. Up to 50%, recovery is reduced by your share of fault.
Deadlines depend on the facts, so do not rely on this page alone. Ask an attorney as soon as possible.
Related pages
After a crash in Miami
- Call 911 and stay at the scene
- Photograph cars, plates and the street
- Get witness names and numbers
- See a doctor within 14 days (PIP)
- Keep the crash report number
- Call 786-786-0777 for a free consultation
How it works
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Frequently asked questions
Is the deadline two or four years?
For most negligence claims arising after March 24, 2023, it is two years. Earlier crashes are generally under the four-year rule.
Does negotiating with the insurer stop the clock?
Generally no. Talks with an insurer do not extend the deadline.
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