Alaska Statute of Limitations

Preliminary Note: Statutes of limitations restrict the time period that a person can file a lawsuit. These statutes not only vary by state, but they also vary by cause of action. The following guide provides limitations periods for each state, but only for particular causes of action; specifically, those related to personal injury, medical malpractice, and products liability claims. The sections discussing special rules for minors only apply to the causes of action listed for that particular state.

Wrongful Death

A cause of action for wrongful death accrues on the date of death and must be filed within two years of that date.

Personal Injury Actions

Personal injury actions must be filed within two years of the date of the injury. In Alaska, personal injury actions include medical malpractice and products liability claims. Alaska has a "discovery rule" that tolls the limitations period. Under that rule, the statute of limitations begins to run when the injured person discovers, or should have discovered, the existence of the cause of action. However, all actions must be brought within 10 years of the date of the injury, regardless of the application of the discovery rule.

Special Rules for Minors

Except in cases of wrongful death, in Alaska, the statute of limitations begins to run on the minor’s 18th birthday. However, the 10-year statute of repose still applies.