Rhode Island 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 must be filed within three years of the date of death.

Personal Injury Actions

Personal Injury Actions must be filed within three years of the date that the injury occurred.

Medical Malpractice Actions

Actions against health-care providers must be filed within three years of the date that the act giving rise to the injury occurred or within three years of the date the injury was, or should have been, discovered. A minor must file a medical malpractice action within three years of his or her 18th birthday.

Products Liability Actions

Products liability actions must be brought within three years of the date of the injury and in no event more than ten years after the cause of action accrued.

Special Rules for Minors

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