Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Massachusetts Civil and Injury

When you are injured, harmed, or wronged in Massachusetts, your right to pursue compensation is not open‑ended. Every type of civil claim is governed by a statute of limitations—a legal deadline for filing a lawsuit in court. Missing that deadline generally means losing your ability to recover damages, regardless of how strong your case may be.

Below is a clear, easy‑to‑understand overview of the most common statutes of limitations in Massachusetts, including special rules that apply to minors.

Three Years for Car Accidents and Most Personal Injury Claims

Most personal injury cases—including car accidents, motorcycle crashes, truck accidents, slip and falls, dog bites, premises liability, and general negligence claims —must be filed within three years of the date of the injury.

Six Years for Contract Disputes

Claims involving written or oral contracts —including breach of contract, business agreements, contractor disputes, promissory notes, and unpaid loan matters—must typically be filed within six years of the breach.

Three Years for Wrongful Death

Wrongful death claims in Massachusetts also carry a three‑year statute of limitations. Importantly, the clock begins on the date of death, not necessarily the date of the incident that caused it.

Three Years for Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice claims follow a three‑year deadline, but with an important twist: the period begins when the patient knew or reasonably should have known that malpractice occurred. This is known as the “discovery rule.”

A separate rule, known as the statute of repose, bars malpractice claims more than seven years after the negligent act, with limited exceptions.

Four Years for Workers’ Compensation Claims

If you are injured on the job, Massachusetts gives injured workers four years to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits, beginning from the date you learned the disability was work‑related.

Four Years for Consumer Protection (93A) Claims

Claims involving unfair or deceptive business practices—often brought under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 93A—must be filed within four years.

Special Rule: Minors Have Extra Time

Massachusetts law pauses the statute of limitations for minors. This means:

• The clock does not begin running until the child turns 18.
• Once they turn 18, they then have the standard amount of time (3, 4, or 6 years depending on the claim).

For example, if a 14‑year‑old is injured in a car accident, the three‑year limit does not begin until their 18th birthday, giving them until age 21 to file a claim.

Why These Deadlines Matter

While these time limits may seem generous, delays can seriously harm a case. Evidence may be lost, memories fade, records go missing, and responsible parties may become difficult to locate. Consulting an attorney promptly ensures your rights are preserved and your case is filed on time.

We Are Here to Protect Your Rights

If you believe you may have a civil, injury, contract, or consumer protection claim in Massachusetts, it is important not to wait. Our firm has over 37 years of experience handling personal injury, contract disputes, business litigation, and more. We can assess your situation, explain your legal options, and make sure your deadlines are met.

To schedule a consultation, contact the Law Offices of Michael M. Kaplan at (508) 473‑1161 or visit kaplanslaw.com