Florida significantly changed its personal injury statute of limitations in March 2023, reducing the window from 4 years to just 2 years for accidents occurring after that date. This makes Florida one of the more time-restrictive states for injury claims — a critical fact for anyone hurt in Miami, Orlando, Tampa, or Jacksonville.
Florida Statute of Limitations — Quick Reference
| Case Type | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Personal Injury | 2 years |
| Medical Malpractice | 2 years |
| Written Contracts | 5 years |
| Oral Contracts | 4 years |
| Property Damage | 4 years |
| Defamation (Libel/Slander) | 2 years |
| Fraud | 4 years |
| Wrongful Death | 2 years |
Detailed Breakdown by Case Type
Personal Injury
As of March 24, 2023, Florida personal injury claims must be filed within 2 years (reduced from 4 years). This applies to all accidents and injuries occurring after that date. Pre-2023 incidents may still fall under the 4-year rule.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice claims have a 2-year limit from the incident or discovery. There's an absolute 4-year statute of repose, with limited exceptions for fraud or concealment (extending up to 7 years).
Written Contracts
Written contract disputes can be filed within 5 years of the breach. This includes most business contracts and signed agreements.
Oral Contracts
Oral agreements have a 4-year window, one year shorter than written contracts.
Property Damage
Property damage claims must be filed within 4 years.
Defamation (Libel/Slander)
Florida defamation claims have a 2-year window from publication.
Fraud
Fraud claims have a 4-year deadline from the date the fraud was or should have been discovered.
Wrongful Death
Wrongful death claims must be filed within 2 years of the death.
⏸️ Florida Tolling & Exceptions
Florida tolling situations include: minority (children's claims toll until age 18 with some exceptions); mental incapacity; defendants concealing their identity or location; and the discovery rule for medical malpractice and fraud cases.
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