How Long Do I Have to File an Injury Claim?
There’s a clock running on your case from the day of your accident. Miss the deadline, and you can lose your right to recover — no matter how strong your claim is.
For most South Carolina cases the deadline is three years, but some claims give you far less. Here’s how to know where your clock stands.
Generally Three Years — But Sometimes Far Less
For most South Carolina personal injury claims you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit, under S.C. Code Ann. § 15-3-530. But that’s the default, not a guarantee — some claims have much shorter deadlines, and once the deadline passes, the courthouse door closes for good no matter how strong your claim is.
By Heist Law Firm · North Charleston, SC. General information, not legal advice.
The Three-Year Deadline
This is the statute of limitations that applies to most negligence claims in South Carolina.
Most Injury Claims: Three Years
For car accidents, slip and falls, and other negligence claims, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit under S.C. Code Ann. § 15-3-530.
Wrongful Death: Three Years From Death
Wrongful death claims generally run three years from the date of death, which is not always the same as the date of the injury. The right deadline depends on the facts.
Exceptions That Cut the Deadline Short
Three years is the default. Several situations shorten it — sometimes dramatically.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until the Deadline
Even with three years on the clock, waiting quietly weakens your case.
Brent Heist · Attorney & Founder
Not Sure Where Your Clock Stands?
Don’t guess. A quick, free call with Heist Law will tell you exactly how much time you have and what to do next — before any deadline sneaks up on you.
Call and you talk to a lawyer, not a call center. The consultation is free, and there’s no fee unless we win.
Deadlines: Common Questions
How long do I have to file an injury claim in South Carolina?
What is the deadline for a wrongful death claim?
Is the deadline ever shorter than three years?
What happens if I miss the deadline?
I have three years — why not wait?
What Our Clients Say About Brent
Heist Law Firm holds a 5.0-star rating across 112 Google reviews. A few, in our clients’ own words.
“Would recommend Mr. Heist to anyone. Very thorough, and he helped walk me through the entire process.”
“Top notch! My worries melted away. I’ll recommend him every time.”
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These are genuine reviews left by real Heist Law Firm clients on Google. Every case is different, and past results or client experiences do not guarantee a similar outcome in your case.
The Deadline Doesn’t Wait. Neither Should You.
Once the statute of limitations passes, the courthouse door closes for good. Find out exactly how long you have before a deadline sneaks up on you.
Free case review, no fee unless we win. A quick call tells you where your clock stands.
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