In the UK, the standard time limit to start a medical negligence claim is three years. This period usually begins from the date the negligent treatment happened. However, if the injury or negligence was not discovered straight away, the time limit starts from the date of knowledge—when you first became aware that your injury was linked to medical error or substandard care.

This rule applies to many clinical negligence claims, including cases involving misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis, surgical errors, and hospital negligence. In some situations, such as claims involving children or lack of mental capacity, different time limits may apply.