If you were injured in a public place (a slip in a shop, a broken footpath, a dog attack) or harmed by medical treatment in South Australia, there is a time limit to start a claim for damages.
The time limit in SA
The general rule is 3 years after the cause of action accrued (for a latent injury, from when it first comes to your knowledge) (Limitation of Actions Act 1936 (SA) s 36). Courts can extend time in some cases, and there are special rules for children and people under a disability, so get advice early.
Harmed by a doctor, hospital or other health service?
You can also complain to the Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner on 1800 232 007. A complaint is separate from a claim for compensation. Concerns about a registered practitioner can also go to Ahpra on 1300 419 495.
Which kind of lawyer?
Slips, trips and falls are public liability claims; harm from treatment is medical negligence. The form below asks a few questions so we can send you the right kind of firm.
Find the right lawyer to speak with
Answer a few quick questions. We send you the name and contact details of a law firm that handles this kind of claim in South Australia, so you can choose to speak with them.
Getting the name of the right firm is free. We do not charge you, and we do not take a fee from the law firm.
Injured in a public place?
Harmed by medical treatment? Answer the medical questions instead.
General information, not legal advice. Claim Done is not a law firm. Checked against the official sources below on 22 October 2026. If you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450.