How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Maine?
- Rachel Okun
- Jan 29
- 3 min read
After an accident, many people assume they have “plenty of time” to decide what to do. In Maine, that’s sometimes true, but waiting too long can permanently eliminate your right to recover compensation.
This deadline is called the statute of limitations, and understanding how it works is critical if you’ve been injured.
Here’s what Maine residents need to know.
What Is a Statute of Limitations?
A statute of limitations is a legal deadline that limits how long you have to file a lawsuit after an injury.
If you miss the deadline:
Your case can be dismissed
You may lose your right to compensation entirely
Even strong cases can be barred
Insurance companies are well aware of these deadlines, and sometimes delay negotiations hoping time runs out.
Maine’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury
In most personal injury cases, Maine allows six years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit.
This generally applies to:
Car accidents
Slip and fall injuries
Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
Other negligence-based injury claims
However, six years is not a rule you should rely on without checking the details of your situation.
When the Clock Starts Running
In many cases, the statute of limitations begins on:
The date of the accident, not the date of diagnosis or settlement talks
That means:
Ongoing medical treatment does not pause the deadline
Negotiating with insurance does not stop the clock
Waiting to “see how you feel” can be risky
Early action protects your options, even if you don’t end up filing a lawsuit.
Important Exceptions That Can Shorten the Deadline
Some cases have much shorter time limits, including:
Claims Involving Government Entities
If your injury involves:
A city, town, or state vehicle
A government-owned property
Special notice requirements may apply, sometimes requiring action within months, not years.
Injuries to Minors
When the injured person is a minor, different rules may apply. These situations are fact-specific and should be reviewed carefully.
Medical Malpractice & Certain Specialized Claims
Medical malpractice and other specialized claims can involve:
Additional notice requirements
Expert review timelines
Different triggering events
These cases should be evaluated early to avoid procedural traps and missed deadlines!!
Why Waiting Can Hurt Your Case — Even If You’re Within the Deadline
Even if time technically remains, delays can still cause problems:
Evidence may be lost
Witness memories fade
Medical records become harder to connect to the accident
Insurance companies gain leverage
Acting early helps preserve the strongest version of your claim.
How This Fits Into What to Do After an Accident
If you’re unsure what steps to take immediately after an injury, start with our guide on what to do after a car accident in Maine, which explains how early decisions can affect both fault and deadlines.
Understanding the statute of limitations is just one piece of protecting your rights.
Should You Talk to a Lawyer Before the Deadline Is Close?
Yes, and often much earlier than people expect.
A conversation does not mean you are filing a lawsuit. It simply helps you understand:
What deadlines apply
Whether exceptions could shorten your timeline
What steps (if any) make sense next
Knowing your options early puts you in control.
How Okun Law PLLC Helps Maine Injury Victims
At Okun Law PLLC, we help clients understand:
How long they have to act
Whether special deadlines apply
What can be done now to preserve their rights
Our focus is on clear communication and thoughtful guidance, not rushing decisions.
Key Takeaway
Maine generally allows six years to file a personal injury claim, but exceptions apply in many circumstances. Waiting too long can cost you your case, even before you realize it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maine Injury Deadlines
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Maine? In most cases, Maine allows six years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, exceptions apply in many cases, so it's important to speak with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an injury.
Does the deadline start on the date of the accident or when I finish treatment? The deadline starts on the date of the accident, not when treatment ends or when you reach a settlement.
Are there shorter deadlines for claims involving the government? Yes. Claims involving state or local government entities require special notice within a much shorter timeframe.
What happens if I miss the statute of limitations in Maine? If the deadline passes, your case will likely be dismissed, even if your injuries are serious and liability is clear.
Should I talk to a lawyer even if I think I have plenty of time? Yes. Speaking with a lawyer early helps ensure deadlines are not missed and important evidence is preserved.
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