Deadlines to File an Injury Lawsuit in Connecticut

A lawsuit for personal injury caused by negligence or by reckless or wanton misconduct must be filed within two years from the date the injury is first sustained or discovered (or reasonably should have been discovered), and no more than three years from the date of the act or omission. Other tort claims not covered by that rule (for example, many intentional torts) have three years from the act or omission.

A lawsuit for damage to real or personal property caused by negligence or reckless or wanton misconduct has the same deadline as personal injury: two years from when the damage is sustained or discovered, and no more than three years from the act or omission.

Malpractice claims against a physician, surgeon, dentist, podiatrist, chiropractor, advanced practice registered nurse, hospital or sanatorium must be filed within two years from when the injury is first sustained or discovered (or reasonably should have been discovered), and never more than three years after the act or omission. A separate law allows an automatic 90-day extension to make a reasonable pre-suit inquiry.

A wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within two years from the date of death, and no more than five years from the act or omission that caused it. There is no deadline if the person at fault was convicted of (or found not guilty by reason of mental disease of) murder, capital or arson murder, or first-degree manslaughter for that death.

Claims against the State generally must be filed with the Office of the Claims Commissioner within one year after they accrue (when the injury is sustained or discovered), and no more than three years after the event; the notice must describe the claim and the amount requested and may ask for permission to sue the State. Cities and towns are liable for negligent acts of their employees within the scope of employment, with exceptions such as discretionary acts and wilful misconduct, and immunity does not apply to negligent operation of a town-owned vehicle. Injuries from a defective road or bridge must be claimed under a separate statute: written notice to the town, city or borough within 90 days, and suit within two years.