Idaho 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

These actions must be brought within two years of the date the injury occurred.

Medical Malpractice Actions

Actions against health care providers must be filed within two years of the date that the act giving rise to the injury occurred.

Medical Malpractice Actions Based on a Foreign Object Left in the Body

These actions must be brought within two years of the date the injured party knows or should have known of the injury.

Products Liability Actions

Products liability actions must be brought within two years after the plaintiff suffers the injury. Also, a claim must be brought within the useful safe life of the product, and a presumption arises that the useful safe life has ended if the action is brought after 10 years from the time of delivery of the product.

Special Rules for Minors

Except in cases of wrongful death, the statute of limitations begins to run on the minor’s 18th birthday. However, the statute of limitations may not be tolled for more than six years because of minority status.