What Is the Deadline to Sue for Personal Injury in Ohio?
The Quick Answer: In Ohio, injured individuals have exactly 2 years from the date of the incident to initiate a civil lawsuit under Ohio Rev. Code § 2305.10. Failing to file your summons and complaint before this deadline permanently bars you from pursuing compensation in Ohio Court of Common Pleas, regardless of how severe your damages or liability are.
The Ohio Discovery Rule & Exceptions
Statute runs from the date the plaintiff informs or is medically diagnosed with the condition.
Government Entity Claims
If the at-fault party is a state, city, or county department (such as a city bus or public road defect), special administrative claim statutes apply, often requiring written notice in as little as 6 months.
Minor Tolling
If the injured person was a minor under age 18 at the time of injury, the statutory clock is generally tolled until their 18th birthday in Ohio.
Average Ohio Bodily Injury Settlement Range
Typical pain and suffering multipliers in Ohio range from 1.5x to 4.5x special economic damages. Historical average settlements fall between $24,000 – $125,000+.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many years do you have to sue for injury in Ohio?
Under Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10, an action based on personal injury must be brought within 2 years after the cause of action accrued.
What damages caps exist for pain and suffering in Ohio?
Ohio caps non-economic damages (pain and suffering) at the greater of $250,000 or three times economic damages, with a hard cap of $350,000 per plaintiff, unless catastrophic injury occurred.