In most personal injury cases in South Carolina, including car accidents, slip and falls, and premises liability, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, your case will almost certainly be dismissed, and you will lose your right to compensation permanently, regardless of how strong your claim is. Exceptions exist, like the “discovery rule” for delayed-onset injuries. Workers’ compensation requires reporting to your employer within 90 days and filing the claim within two years. Cases against government entities have stricter, shorter deadlines and special notice rules. Due to varying deadlines, consult an attorney immediately after an injury.