Best Car Accident Lawyers in Gainesville, FL

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Gainesville, Florida?

  The Gainesville Police Department's non-emergency number is (352) 955-1818.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Gainesville, Florida?

  You can request traffic crash and incident reports in person or via phone call at the Gainesville Police Department Records Section located at 545 NW 8th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32601. You may contact the office at (352) 393-7565. You can also request incident reports online by visiting the Gainesville Police Department's website and clicking the Virtual Front Desk.

• Are you required to report your car accident in Gainesville to the police?

  According to The 2022 Florida Statutes Chapter 316, all car accidents that result in an injury, a death, or property damage amounting to at least $500 are required to be reported to the police immediately. Also, car accidents involving drunk driving or a hit-and-run must be reported. If you called 911 after the accident, the responding police officer should file the report. If the police officer did not file the report, you must submit the car accident report on the website of the Florida Highway Patrol within 10 days. It is encouraged that you report your car accident in Gainesville, no matter how minor.

• What if the driver at fault for your car accident in Gainesville does not have insurance or is underinsured?

  As Gainesville is in a no-fault state, you can still recover compensation for your damages by making a claim from your own insurance policy, provided that you have uninsured motorist coverage. If your coverage is not enough for your damages or injuries, a car accident lawyer can help you file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver to pursue additional compensation.

• Where do most car accidents occur in Gainesville?

  Car crashes in Gainesville mostly occur in intersections, particularly the intersections of NW 34th Street and NW 39th Avenue, and W University Avenue and NW 22nd Street. The intersection of SW Archer Road and N Interstate 75 also sees a lot of rear-end collisions due to tailgating. This area has a high density of commercial establishments leading to a constant stream of traffic. Based on data from the Florida Department Highway of Safety and Motor Vehicles, Gainesville’s seat, Alachua County, reported 5,193 car accidents in 2021 alone. For 2022, a total of 2,311 car accidents in Gainesville resulted in injuries, and at least 31 resulted in deaths.

• Do you have to contact the other driver’s insurance company to claim compensation for a car accident in Gainesville?

  No, you do not need to contact the other driver's insurer, only your own insurance company. Talking to the other driver’s insurer may be detrimental to your personal injury claim. Insurance companies seek to devalue claims and may use your statements against you. It is also not wise to provide access to your medical records to the other driver’s insurance representative before consulting with your legal counsel. An experienced car accident lawyer in Gainesville can help you navigate the devaluing tactics used by insurance companies.

• Can you file a car accident claim in Gainesville even if you didn't make a police report?

  You can still pursue a personal injury claim even if neither you nor the responding police officer filed a police report. However, since there is no official record indicating an automobile accident occurred, this could make it difficult to prove your claim. To prove the accident, you will need to present more evidence. Even if you believe the damages are minor, it is advisable to report any car accident immediately. You can then request a copy of the accident report from the Gainesville Police Department or the Alachua County Sheriff's Office.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.