Colorado's 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

In most cases, a wrongful death action must be filed within two years of the date of death. In cases where the death resulted out of the use or operation of a motor vehicle, however, the action must be filed within three years of the date of death.

Personal Injury Actions

An action for personal injury must be filed within two years of the date that the injury occurred.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

In Colorado, one can file suit to recover damages for injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident up to three years after the accident occurred.

Uninsured Motorist Claims

Uninsured motorist claims must be filed three years after the cause of action accrues.

Medical Malpractice

Actions against health-care providers must be filed within two years of date of the injury or within two years after the injury was, or should have been, discovered. In no event may a person file a medical malpractice claim more than three years after the act giving rise to the injury occurred.

Products Liability

Products liability suits must be filed within two years of the date of the injury.

Special Rules for Minors

Except in cases of wrongful death, the statute of limitations begins to run on the minor's 18th birthday.