How long do you have to sue after an injury in Oregon?
Last checked November 8, 2026
In Oregon you generally have 2 years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit, under ORS § 12.110(1). If a city, county or the state is responsible, the deadline can be much shorter: 180 days; wrongful death 1 year (§ 30.275(2)(a)).
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.
Oregon injury deadlines at a glance
| Situation | Deadline | Law |
|---|---|---|
| Most injuries, including car accidents | 2 years | ORS § 12.110(1) |
| Wrongful death | 3 years | ORS § 30.020(1) |
| Claim against the government (Public bodies) | 180 days; wrongful death 1 year (§ 30.275(2)(a)) | ORS § 30.275(2)(b) |
What the law says
“An action for assault, battery, false imprisonment, or for any injury to the person or rights of another, not arising on contract, and not especially enumerated in this chapter, shall be commenced within two years”
ORS § 12.110(1)
“(b) For all other claims, within 180 days after the alleged loss or injury.”
ORS § 30.275(2)(b)
When does the clock start?
Usually on the day you were hurt. In Oregon, ORS § 12.110(1) 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
- ORS § 12.110(1), Official text, 2026-11-08
- ORS § 30.020(1), Official text, 2026-11-08
- ORS § 30.275(2)(b), Official text, 2026-11-08