Slip and fall accidents can lead to serious injuries, costly medical bills, and lost wages. If you were injured in a fall on someone else’s property in

Pennsylvania, understanding the statute of limitations is critical. Waiting too long to take legal action can prevent you from recovering compensation.

At Aegis Law, LLC, we provide legal assistance to the Philadelphia public and help injured individuals understand their rights after a slip and fall accident.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims — including slip and fall cases — is two years from the date of the accident. This means you generally have two years to file a lawsuit against the property owner or responsible party.

If you fail to file within this time frame, the court will likely dismiss your case, and you may lose your right to pursue compensation entirely.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Although two years may seem like a long time, building a strong slip and fall claim takes preparation. Important evidence can disappear quickly. Surveillance footage may be erased, hazardous conditions may be repaired, and witnesses’ memories may fade.

Acting promptly allows your attorney to:

• Investigate the accident scene
• Preserve critical evidence
• Interview witnesses
• Review medical records
• Determine liability

The sooner you begin the process, the stronger your case may be.

Are There Any Exceptions to the Two-Year Rule?

While the general rule is two years, certain exceptions may apply in limited circumstances.

Claims Against Government Entities

If your slip and fall occurred on property owned by a government agency — such as a city building or public sidewalk — special rules apply. You may be required to provide written notice within six months of the injury. Missing this deadline could jeopardize your claim.

Injuries to Minors

If the injured person is under 18 years old, the statute of limitations may be extended. In many cases, the two-year period begins once the minor turns 18.

Discovery Rule

In rare cases, if an injury was not immediately discoverable, the clock may start when the injury was discovered or reasonably should have been discovered. However, this exception does not apply to most typical slip and fall incidents.

What Must Be Proven in a Slip and Fall Case?

Filing within the statute of limitations is only part of the process. To recover compensation, you must prove that:

• The property owner owed you a duty of care
• A dangerous condition existed
• The owner knew or should have known about the hazard
• The hazard caused your injury

Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are found more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover compensation. If you are partially at fault but less than 51%, your compensation may be reduced accordingly.

What Compensation May Be Available?

A successful slip and fall claim may allow you to recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical treatment
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering

Each case is unique, and the value of a claim depends on the severity of the injuries and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

How Aegis Law, LLC Can Help

Slip and fall claims can be complex, especially when property owners deny responsibility or insurance companies attempt to minimize payouts. At Aegis Law, LLC, we assist clients in Philadelphia with evaluating their claims, gathering evidence, and pursuing fair compensation within the required deadlines.

If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, seeking legal guidance as soon as possible can help protect your rights and ensure your claim is filed on time.