How long do you have to sue after an injury in New Jersey?
Last checked November 8, 2026
In New Jersey you generally have 2 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit, under N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2(a). If a city, county or the state is responsible, the deadline can be much shorter: 90 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 Jersey injury deadlines at a glance
| Situation | Deadline | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Most injuries, including car accidents | 2 years | N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2(a) |
| Wrongful death | 2 years | N.J.S.A. 2A:31-3 |
| Claim against the government (Public entities) | 90 days | N.J.S.A. 59:8-8(a) |
What the law says
“every action at law for an injury to the person caused by the wrongful act, neglect or default of any person within this State shall be commenced within two years next after the cause of any such action shall have accrued”
N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2(a)
“The claimant failed to file the claim with the public entity within 90 days of accrual of the claim”
N.J.S.A. 59:8-8(a)
When does the clock start?
Usually on the day you were hurt. In New Jersey, N.J.S.A. 2A:14-2(a) 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.J.S.A. 2A:14-2(a), Official text, 2026-11-08
- N.J.S.A. 2A:31-3, Official text, 2026-11-08
- N.J.S.A. 59:8-8(a), Official text, 2026-11-08