How much does a personal injury attorney cost?

Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless you win. Fees are typically 33–40% of the settlement. The initial case review is always free.

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit?

The statute of limitations varies by state. Florida's deadline is 2 years; New York allows 3 years for most personal injury claims. Consult an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

What types of accidents qualify for a personal injury claim?

Common claims include car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, slip and fall incidents, pedestrian accidents, dog bites, construction site injuries, and rideshare accidents.

What compensation can I recover in a personal injury case?

You may recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in some cases punitive damages. The value depends on the severity of your injuries and available insurance coverage.

What should I do immediately after an accident?

Seek medical attention immediately, call the police to file a report, document the scene with photos, collect contact and insurance information, and consult a personal injury attorney before speaking with any insurance adjuster.

Plaintiff Guide Florida

Gainesville Car Accident Lawyer: What to Do After a Crash in Alachua County

CaseConnect Editorial · April 29, 2026

A car accident in Gainesville can leave you dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance companies all at once. A Gainesville car accident lawyer can help you navigate Florida's no-fault system and pursue full compensation.

Car accidents in Gainesville, Florida happen every day—on University Avenue, SW Archer Road, NW 34th Street, and on the stretches of I-75 and US-441 that run through Alachua County. If you've been hurt in a crash, understanding your rights under Florida law is the first step toward recovery.

Florida operates a no-fault insurance system. After a car accident, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance pays 80% of your medical bills and 60% of lost wages up to $10,000, regardless of who caused the crash. To receive the full PIP benefit, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident.

A Gainesville car accident lawyer will investigate the crash, gather evidence, deal with insurance adjusters on your behalf, and build a case for maximum compensation. Common causes of car accidents in the Gainesville area include distracted driving especially near UF campus, impaired driving, speeding on I-75, failure to yield, and accidents involving large trucks on US-441 and SR-26.

Florida's 2023 tort reform also changed comparative fault rules. Under the new modified comparative fault standard, if you are found more than 51% at fault, you cannot recover any damages. Insurance companies will aggressively try to assign you more blame than you deserve. An experienced Gainesville car accident lawyer counters these tactics with evidence.

If you were hurt in a car accident in Gainesville or anywhere in Alachua County, consult with a car accident attorney before accepting any settlement offer.

Were You Injured in an Accident?

A personal injury attorney can evaluate your case for free — no upfront costs, ever.

Get a Free Case Review