How long do you have to sue after an injury in New Hampshire?
Last checked November 8, 2026
In New Hampshire you generally have 3 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit, under N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 508:4(I). If a city, county or the state is responsible, the deadline can be much shorter: 60 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.
New Hampshire injury deadlines at a glance
| Situation | Deadline | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Most injuries, including car accidents | 3 years | N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 508:4(I) |
| Claim against the government (Governmental units) | 60 days | N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 507-B:7 |
| After the government claim | 180 days | N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 541-B:14 |
What the law says
“all personal actions, except actions for slander or libel, may be brought only within 3 years of the act or omission complained of”
N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 508:4(I)
“shall be notified by registered mail within 60 days after the time of the injury or damage or discovery of the injury or damage”
N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 507-B:7
When does the clock start?
Usually on the day you were hurt. In New Hampshire, N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 508:4(I) 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
- N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 508:4(I), Official text, 2026-11-08
- N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 507-B:7, Official text, 2026-11-08
- N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 541-B:14, Official text, 2026-11-08