How long do you have to sue after an injury in Idaho?
Last checked November 8, 2026
In Idaho you generally have 2 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit, under Idaho Code § 5-219(4). If a city, county or the state is responsible, the deadline can be much shorter: 180 days.
Calculate your deadline
Your general deadline would be
This is a general estimate. Exceptions can change it. We do not need your details to show it.
Idaho injury deadlines at a glance
| Situation | Deadline | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Most injuries, including car accidents | 2 years | Idaho Code § 5-219(4) |
| Wrongful death | 2 years | Idaho Code § 5-219(4) |
| Claim against the government (Political subdivisions) | 180 days | Idaho Code § 6-906 |
| After the government claim | 180 days | Idaho Code § 6-905 |
What the law says
“Within two (2) years: [...] 4. An action to recover damages for professional malpractice, or for an injury to the person, or for the death of one caused by the wrongful act or neglect of another”
Idaho Code § 5-219(4)
“within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date the claim arose or reasonably should have been discovered, whichever is later.”
Idaho Code § 6-906
When does the clock start?
Usually on the day you were hurt. In Idaho, Idaho Code § 5-219(4) 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
- Idaho Code § 5-219(4), Official text, 2026-11-08
- Idaho Code § 6-906, Official text, 2026-11-08
- Idaho Code § 6-905, Official text, 2026-11-08