Time is Critical: Don’t Lose Your Right to Compensation

In Ontario, the law limits how long you have to file a personal injury claim — and if you wait too long, you could lose your chance at financial recovery.

You Generally Have 2 Years to File a Claim

Under Ontario’s Limitations Act, you have 2 years from the date you knew — or should have known — that:

You were injured
Someone else’s negligence caused it
Legal action was the right path forward

This is called the “discoverability rule.” If you miss this window, your claim could be denied — no matter how serious your injuries are.

Hurt on City Property? Act Even Faster

If you slipped, tripped, or were injured on municipal property (like icy sidewalks or potholes), the timeline is even shorter:

You must give written notice to the city within just 10 days. Missing this deadline can stop your case before it even starts — unless you have a legally valid excuse.

Injured Minors & Incapacitated Individuals

For minors, the 2-year clock doesn’t start until they turn 18 — unless a litigation guardian is appointed sooner.
If someone is mentally incapable, the deadline is paused while the incapacity continues.