Minnesota 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 wrongful death action based on negligence must be filed within three years of the date of death, but in no event can the action be filed more than six years from the date that the act giving rise to claim occurred. In cases where the wrongful death action is based upon medical malpractice, suit must be filed within three years of the date of death, but in no event can the action be filed more than four years from the date that the act that giving rise to the injury occurred.

Personal Injury Actions

Depending on the nature of the claim, either a two-year or a six-year statute of limitations will apply. Actions based on “ordinary negligence,” for example, carry a six-year statute. In cases where an injury was caused by a defective or unsafe condition of real estate, a two-year limitations period applies.

Medical Malpractice Actions

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

Products Liability Actions

Depending on the circumstances and nature of the claim, a two, four, or six-year statute of limitations could apply.

Special Rules for Minors

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