When someone is injured in a car, motorcycle, or truck accident, the clock starts ticking immediately on their right to file a claim. In Oklahoma, that time limit is called the statute of limitations—and missing it could mean losing your right to recover compensation forever.

At Pasquali & Associates in Oklahoma City, we help injury victims understand their rights, meet filing deadlines, and protect their cases from costly legal mistakes.

Statute of Limitations for Injury Lawsuits in Oklahoma

What Is the Statute of Limitations?

A statute of limitations is a law that sets the maximum time you have to take legal action after an injury or wrongful act. Once the deadline passes, your case can be dismissed—even if your injuries are severe or the other driver was clearly at fault.

In Oklahoma, the law that governs personal injury time limits is Oklahoma Statutes Title 12, Section 95(A)(3). This law states that actions “for injury to the rights of another, not arising on contract,” must be brought within two years of the date the injury occurred.

Oklahoma’s Two-Year Limit for Personal Injury Cases

Most personal injury lawsuits—including car accidents, motorcycle wrecks, and truck collisions—must be filed within two (2) years of the date of the accident.

That means if you were injured in a crash on May 1, 2025, you generally have until May 1, 2027, to file your lawsuit in court.

Tip: Even though you have up to two years, it’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. Evidence fades, witnesses move, and insurance companies may take advantage of delays.

For more about what to do after a serious crash, view our Oklahoma Law Firm Articles 

Exceptions That Can Extend or Shorten the Deadline

Oklahoma law recognizes several exceptions that can pause or modify the two-year period. Understanding these exceptions can make the difference between keeping and losing your right to compensation.

1. Injuries Discovered Later

If your injuries were not immediately apparent—such as internal injuries or delayed symptoms—the statute of limitations may begin when you reasonably discovered the injury, not the date of the crash.

2. Claims Involving Minors

When a victim is under 18 years old, the statute of limitations may be paused until they reach adulthood. Once the injured person turns 18, they typically have two years to file a claim.

3. Claims Against Government Entities

If your accident involved a government vehicle or employee (such as a city maintenance truck or state highway worker), you must file a notice of claim within one (1) year under the Oklahoma Governmental Tort Claims Act (Title 51 O.S. §156)

Failing to meet this shorter deadline can permanently bar your case.

4. Wrongful Death Claims

If someone dies from their accident-related injuries, their family or estate representative may bring a wrongful death lawsuit within two years of the date of death, not the original accident date.

Why the Statute of Limitations Matters

Missing the statute of limitations is one of the most preventable mistakes an injured person can make. Once time runs out, courts have no discretion to reopen your case. Insurance companies know this—and may delay settlement talks hoping you’ll miss your window to sue.

Working with an experienced Oklahoma City personal injury attorney ensures your claim is filed properly and on time.

Protecting Your Rights After a Crash

If you’ve been hurt in an accident, take these steps immediately to preserve your right to compensation:

• Seek medical care right away. Your health comes first, and medical records are key evidence.
• Report the accident to law enforcement and your insurance provider.
• Gather evidence, including photos, witness information, and police reports.
• Avoid signing insurance paperwork until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
• Contact an experienced injury lawyer to make sure your case is filed before your legal time limit expires.

Why Choose Pasquali & Associates

At Pasquali & Associates, our Oklahoma City personal injury lawyers have decades of experience representing clients hurt in serious motor vehicle accidents. We understand how to build cases that meet statutory requirements and hold negligent drivers and corporations accountable.

Whether you were hurt in a car crash, motorcycle wreck, or commercial truck accident, we can help ensure your claim is filed before time runs out.

Free Consultation — Call (405) 605-8380 today.