Deadlines to File an Injury Lawsuit in Minnesota

Generally six years for injury to the person not arising on contract (which covers negligence claims). Two years for libel, slander, assault, battery, false imprisonment or "other tort resulting in personal injury." Four years for strict product liability claims.

Six years for taking, detaining or injuring personal property.

Four years from the date the cause of action accrued for a malpractice action against a physician, surgeon, dentist, other health care professional, hospital or treatment facility. A wrongful death action based on medical negligence must be filed within three years of the death, but not later than the four-year malpractice limit.

Within three years after the date of death, but no more than six years after the wrongful act or omission. Exceptions: deaths from medical professional negligence (three years from death, within the four-year malpractice limit), and deaths caused by murder (no time limit).

A written notice stating the time, place and circumstances of the loss, the employees involved and the amount demanded must be given within 180 days after the loss or injury is discovered: to the Attorney General (and any state employee being sued) for claims against the state, or to the governing body of a city, county or other municipality. For wrongful death claims, notice may be given within one year. Time while the injured person is incapacitated does not count. Liability is capped at $500,000 per claimant and $1,500,000 for all claims from a single occurrence (for claims arising on or after July 1, 2009), and the state will not pay punitive damages.