The statute of limitations is a strict legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. If you miss it, your right to pursue compensation is gone — permanently. Understanding these deadlines is one of the most important things you can do to protect your legal rights.
Key Colorado Deadlines
Colorado has different statutes of limitations depending on the type of case:
- Personal injury: 2 years from the date of injury (C.R.S. 13-80-102)
- Wrongful death: 2 years from the date of death (C.R.S. 13-21-204)
- Medical malpractice: 2 years from discovery, with a 3-year absolute limit (C.R.S. 13-80-102.5)
- Workers' compensation: 2 years from the date of injury or last authorized medical treatment
- Property damage: 3 years (C.R.S. 13-80-101)
Exceptions That Can Extend or Shorten the Deadline
Several circumstances can affect these deadlines. Claims against government entities require notice within 182 days. Minors generally have until two years after their 18th birthday. The "discovery rule" may extend the deadline if an injury wasn't immediately apparent. However, relying on exceptions is risky — courts interpret them narrowly.
Why Waiting Is Dangerous
Even if you're within the legal deadline, delay hurts your case. Evidence disappears, memories fade, witnesses become harder to locate, and surveillance footage gets overwritten. Insurance companies know this and benefit from delay.
This article provides general information about Colorado law and is not legal advice. Statutes of limitations involve complex legal analysis. Contact an attorney promptly to ensure your rights are protected.