How Long Do I Have To File
a Personal Injury Claim in Colorado?

Clock’s ticking — but how fast?

If you’ve been injured in Colorado and think someone else is responsible, you probably have the right to file a personal injury claim. But here’s the deal: you only have a limited window of time to take action — and once it closes, your claim is usually gone for good.

This article walks you through Colorado’s statute of limitations, the key exceptions that might give you more time, and what happens if you file too late. We’ll keep it plain-English and to the point, so you know exactly what to do — and when.

What Is the Statute of Limitations in Colorado?

Think of it like an expiration date for your legal rights.

In Colorado, the general rule is:

🕒 You have 2 years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.

That applies to most cases — including slips and falls, dog bites, assault, and general negligence.

Why Does the Law Set a Time Limit?

The idea is to encourage people to act while:

• • Evidence is still fresh

  • Witnesses can still remember what happened

  • The claim is fair to both sides

But don’t worry — there are exceptions, and we’ll cover those next.

Exceptions: When You Might Have More (or Less) Time

Here’s where things get interesting.

🚗 Car Accidents: 3-Year Deadline

In most vehicle-related injury claims (including hit-and-runs or pedestrian accidents), you get a full 3 years from the date of the accident to file.

✅ Tip: Even if the crash happened 2.5 years ago, you might still have time. Act fast.

🚸 Injuries Involving Children: Clock Starts Later

If a minor (under 18) is injured, the 2-year timer usually doesn’t start until they turn 18.

That means they typically have until their 20th birthday to file a claim — but parents can still file sooner on their behalf.

🧠 Injuries You Didn’t Discover Right Away

Sometimes you don’t realize you were injured right away. Maybe it’s a delayed brain injury or internal issue. Colorado’s discovery rule says the clock starts when:

“The injury and its cause are (or should have been) reasonably discovered.”

But you can’t wait forever — courts will look at what a “reasonable person” would’ve known and when.

🏛️ Claims Against the Government: Only 180 Days!

If your injury was caused by a government agency or employee, Colorado law gives you just:

⚠️ 180 days (6 months) to file a formal notice of claim.

That’s not even the lawsuit — it’s just to let them know. If you miss this step, you’re most likely out of luck.

What Happens If You Wait Too Long to File?

Three words: You lose everything.

If you try to file after the statute of limitations expires:

• • The court will almost always dismiss your case

  • The defendant’s attorney will raise it as a defense — and they’ll win

  • You won’t get compensation, no matter how strong your case was

And unfortunately, there are no do-overs once time runs out.

What If the Insurance Company Is Still Talking to Me?

Don’t take that as a sign you have unlimited time. Insurers might string you along — and then suddenly deny your claim once the clock runs out.

File the lawsuit on time, or you may have zero leverage.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until the Last Minute

Technically, you could file a personal injury lawsuit the day before the deadline… but it’s a terrible idea.

Why?

• • You might not have gathered enough evidence

  • You may not know how much your medical bills will be

  • Your injuries might get worse over time

  • You could miss the deadline due to paperwork errors

  • No lawyer will take your case if it’s too close to expiration

The sooner you talk to a personal injury lawyer in Denver, the better your chances.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Helps You Stay on Track

A good attorney will:

• • Track deadlines for you

  • Investigate and gather proof fast

  • Handle negotiations with insurance

  • Make sure you’re filing in the right court and on time

  • Preserve evidence that could disappear (like surveillance footage)

And if your case qualifies for one of the exceptions above, they’ll know how to argue for it.

Colorado Personal Injury FAQs

How long do I have to sue someone after an injury in Colorado?

Usually 2 years, but it’s 3 years for car accidents.

What if I didn’t know I was injured right away?

The clock starts when a reasonable person would’ve discovered the injury and its cause.

Do I get more time if my child was hurt?

Yes — the clock usually starts when they turn 18.

Can I file a claim against the city or government?

Yes, but you must file notice within 180 days of the injury.

Is there any way to file late?

In rare cases involving fraud or disability, maybe — but don’t count on it. Talk to a lawyer ASAP.

📣 Don’t Wait — Talk to a Colorado
Injury Lawyer Today!

If you’ve been hurt and think someone else is responsible, time matters — big time. Every day you wait could cost you your case, your compensation, and your peace of mind.

Schedule a free consultation with a trusted Colorado personal injury attorney today.
👉 Get legal help now