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Florida Personal Injury LawyersHelp Is Just
A Call AwayFighting for Equal Justice for the Injured

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Results That Change Lives
We'll Fight for the Justice You Deserve
Settlement$6,500,000

Truck accident resulting in wrongful death in Palm Beach County

Verdict$5,000,000

Medical Malpractice resulting in wrongful death of newborn baby in Palm Beach County.

Settlement$4,500,000

Product Liability resulting in head & neck injuries in Martin County.

Settlement$3,000,000

Premises Liability resulting in head & neck injuries in St. Lucie County.

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West Palm Beach Personal Injury Lawyers
Serving Individuals & Families Statewide

When you’ve been involved in a serious accident or harmed by the negligence of another, you need a legal team you can count on, one that will fight for you, your rights, and your recovery. At Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather, we understand just how important it is that you secure the full, fair compensation you are owed. Our West Palm Beach personal injury lawyers are ready to advocate tirelessly for you and your family so that you can get back on your feet and move forward with your life.

When you turn to Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather, you’ll find a compassionate and approachable team. We genuinely care about you and your well-being, which is why we prioritize client communication and accessibility. As a client, you will work directly with your attorney throughout the legal process and will have access to our entire support staff. We are always available to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide the guidance you need to navigate your recovery.

Personal injuries in Florida can result from a variety of accidents and incidents. Understanding the most common types of personal injuries, what steps to take immediately following an accident, and how the personal injury lawsuit process works in Florida is crucial for anyone living in or visiting the state.

Common Personal Injuries in Florida

Vehicle Accidents: Florida’s high traffic volume and tourist population contribute to many car, motorcycle, and truck accidents each year. These accidents often result in whiplash, fractures, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
Slip and Fall Accidents: These are common in public places such as shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, and amusement parks. Injuries can range from minor bruises to serious fractures or head injuries.
Workplace Accidents: Workers in construction, agriculture, and tourism industries frequently suffer from falls, equipment accidents, and exposure to hazardous materials.
Boating Accidents: Given Florida’s extensive coastline and popularity as a boating destination, accidents on the water are frequent, leading to drownings, head injuries, and other serious injuries.
Dog Bites: Florida sees a significant number of dog bite incidents annually, which can result in severe lacerations, infection, and sometimes psychological trauma.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents: With its warm climate encouraging outdoor activities, accidents involving cyclists and pedestrians are also common, often resulting in serious injuries.

What to Do After an Accident

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured, some conditions may not be immediately apparent.
2. Report the Accident: Depending on the type of accident, report it to the police, your employer, or the property owner.
3. Document Everything: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Gather names and contact information of witnesses.
4. Do Not Admit Fault: Be cautious about what you say after the accident. Admitting fault can impact your ability to seek compensation later.
5. Contact an Attorney: A Florida personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process, deal with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected.

How a Personal Injury Lawsuit Works in Florida

Consultation with an Attorney: The process begins with a consultation to discuss your case’s merits, potential compensation, and the legal strategy.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Your attorney will collect evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.
Filing the Lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company, your attorney will file a lawsuit in court.
Discovery Phase: Both parties exchange information and evidence. This phase may include depositions, requests for documents, and interrogatories.
Mediation and Negotiation: Before going to trial, there’s often an attempt to settle the case through mediation or negotiation.
Trial: If a settlement is not reached, the case will go to trial. Both sides present their evidence and arguments, and a judge or jury makes a decision.
Appeal: Either party can appeal the decision if they believe there has been a legal error.

Navigating the aftermath of an accident in Florida can be overwhelming. Understanding the common types of personal injuries, the steps to take immediately following an accident, and the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit are essential steps to ensure you are properly compensated for your injuries. Working with an experienced West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer at Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather can significantly ease this process, offering guidance and advocacy every step of the way.

Serving All Of Florida

 

Contact Experienced West Palm Beach Injury Lawyers

Our firm exclusively handles personal injury matters. By dedicating our practice to this singular area of law, we are able to focus all of our time, resources, and efforts on securing the best possible results for our clients. From motor vehicle accidents to medical malpractice, slip and falls to defective products, we represent victims of all types of accidents, injuries, and catastrophic events. The West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather have secured many million- and multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts, and we are ready to fight for you, too.

Contact us online or call 561-500-HELP to request a free initial consultation. Hablamos español.

Client Testimonials
We Care About Every Case
5 Stars

Beyond Satisfying!

Working with Mr. Báez and Kimberly was a wonderful experience. Anytime that you need to enlist legal services there is a certain degree of uncertainty and anxiety. They were very professional, provided great advice, and were in frequent contact throughout the whole process. Not only did I feel very comfortable with their representation, but the results were also beyond satisfying. I can't say enough about Mr. Báez and Kimberly... THANK YOU for everything.

Kevin M.
5 Stars

Highly Recommend

After 20 months we finally got a resolution. Mr. Báez was terrific, when we talked he laid everything out and explained our options. Kimberly Simpson, what a tremendous asset! always available, any emails that were sent were promptly answered, we never felt that we were a burden to them. Would highly recommend this firm to anyone seeking a positive outcome.

Tony B.
5 Stars

I would recommend Marci Ball to anyone needing a good and caring attorney.

Attorney Marci Ball handled a case for me while I was going through personal trying times. She did so in a very professional and empathetic manner. This all led to a successful and positive outcome in my case. I would recommend Marci Ball to anyone needing a good and caring attorney.

Jeannine V.
5 Stars

Scott and his team are truly amazing and will work hard for your rights.

Scott and his team are truly amazing and will work hard for your rights. From the time you walk in you are welcomed at the reception with a warm smile by Isabel, then the legal team in the back is always ready to help you. Vicki was outstanding at her job and as busy as she is, she was still so responsive to my concerns over the phone or getting back to me quickly over email. Scott was an amazing attorney and made me feel like I was his friend and truly cared for me and guided me through the whole process. If he couldn’t be there I was in good hands with Marci. I have had previous experience with other attorneys and I would highly recommend their team to anyone I know because they all work together so professionally and well together that they will do the best for you. Thank you, everyone.

Juan L.
5 Stars

Nothing short of AMAZING.

If you are reading this there is no need to look any further! Nelson Báez, Kimberly Simpson, and the team have been nothing short of AMAZING. After a difficult time in my life and battling against not only one firm but three, they were there to walk me through the whole process. They answered every one of my calls, set up all my appointments, and advised me on my care. I think the scariest part for me was the bills. They took care of that too. I did not have to worry and that is priceless. Not only did they win my case, but they also won my respect and friendship.

Darlene H.
5 Stars

Great recovery and excellent to work with!

Mr. Smith and his staff were amazing every step of the way during the intimidating legal process to those of us who are not used to it. They were easy to reach and kept in close contact throughout the entire process making sure we understood everything that was going on and answering any questions that we may have had along the way. Mr. Smith came highly recommended and from day one it was apparent why. Without hesitation my husband and I would use Mr. Smith's services again should we need them. Great recovery and excellent to work with!

Maryann V.
5 Stars

Always available and kept my best interest at all times.

Marci Ball represented me when I got into a car accident. From the moment I entered her office, she treated me like family. Marci got to work right away and kept me totally informed of what was going on. It’s a pleasure to work with an attorney who was always available and kept my best interest at all times. It’s good to have family looking out for you. THANK YOU SO MUCH MARCI!

Hector M.
5 Stars

My best interest was always the goal.

Great work! I received a clear and patient commutation. I felt my best interest was always the goal. Nelson and Kim presented as a strong team, who showed a lot of medical knowledge. I appreciate all their hard work that brought us to great accomplishments.

Tammy D.
5 Stars

I will always call on Smith, Ball, & Báez, honest, fair, and family.

Called looking for a lawyer and was treated more like family. The first person that actually cared about my case other than myself. Marci Ball Elordi exceeded all my expectations, got me back everything I was owed, and more. Marci has stayed in touch with me even though her job has been completed. I cannot thank her enough for helping me end the suffering I was going through. I will always call on Smith, Ball, & Báez, honest, fair, and family.

Jeff B.
5 Stars

If I could give them ten stars I would!!

The Law Offices of Smith & Ball were awesome from start to finish. They walked me through what was going to happen step by step. Communicated well all the time. Was always available directly if I had any questions. Typically when you deal with an attorney office they force you to direct all the information via a paralegal or assistant, not the case here. I had the privilege of having Marci handle my case and she was beyond awesome!! I keep her info with me at all times and when I hear that her services are needed I pass her info along to everyone. This is an office you can trust and not worry that you are going to get shafted along the way. If I could give them ten stars I would!!

Ryan S.
5 Stars

HIGHLY recommend Marci Ball and her staff.

I HIGHLY recommend Marci Ball and her staff. What a great team. I never felt like I was just a client. Marci and Bianca always took the time to answer my questions and keep me informed. Her representation provided me peace of mind in a stressful situation.

Courtney H.
5 Stars

Eternally grateful.

I really appreciate everything that Scott Smith and his law firm have done for me. They fought for me and litigated my case extensively. I would recommend Scott and his law firm to anyone who has been in a serious car or truck accident. He will have my respect forever, he was always available to speak with me and very supportive. I will be eternally grateful.

Rachel D.
5 Stars

Amazing firm.

Amazing firm. Marci Ball & her team handled my case. They made sure everything was taken care of. Such a professional firm. I was beyond blessed to have them work on my case and change my family’s life. I highly recommend the firm.

Jose C.
5 Stars

Best in the business.

I had an accident a few years ago that really had a profound impact on my life. Scott was so patient and understanding and he really walked me through every step of the process. He and his staff were amazing throughout. The communication was great. My case is not one that's straightforward, unfortunately, but Scott knew exactly what to do at every twist and turn. I cannot recommend him more strongly. I was referred to him and was told he was the best in the business, and now I know that to be true!

Former Client
5 Stars

These kind folks are highly recommended.

Scott Smith was very responsive to my case and kept me well informed about the progress that was being made on my behalf. Every time I had a question or inquiry he always took the time to personally answer very swiftly. I am very pleased with the outcome and I would like to thank the firm for a job well done. If anyone needs legal advice concerning a personal injury case these kind folks are highly recommended.

Neal H.
5 Stars

Vicki handled my case flawlessly.

Vicki handled my case flawlessly. Took care of all negotiations and made the process very easy for me, and ensured I received the most compensation possible. Always answered/returned phone calls promptly, great communication every step of the way. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need.

Cody K.
5 Stars

Smith and Ball is unlike any other injury law firm!

Smith and Ball is unlike any other injury law firm! Marci and Scott set themselves apart from other attorneys not only in their work ethic, skill, and decades of experience but in their compassion and dedication to their clients! They not only care for a favorable verdict but for fighting for clients personally... because they care! This attitude and philosophy trickles down to their staff... the entire Smith Ball team is unparalleled. If you are reading this and questioning which firm to go with, choose Smith and Ball! You will be in the Best hands possible!

Andrea L.
5 Stars

5 stars are not enough.

5 stars are not enough. Scott Smith and his Team will fight for you while you are healing and recovering. They go above and beyond to make sure you are taken care of. He won my case and I recovered more than I could imagine! Thank you so very much! I highly and honestly recommend Scott Smith and his Partners.

Astrid J.
5 Stars

If you're in need of an injury lawyer, I would call Scott Smith!

I'd like to highly recommend working with Scott Smith and his team. From the first call, I made to his firm everyone treated me with compassion and concern. Both Scott and Vicki were instrumental in teaching me the process, always taking my calls and responding to emails quickly. During deposition and mediation, Scott helped coach me along with each step of the process. He and his team are consummate professionals. If you're in need of an injury lawyer, I would call Scott Smith!

Sean Q.
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Avvo Rating - Superb
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
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Palm Beach County Bar Association
Palm Beach County Justice Association
Super Lawyers
Best Lawyers- Lawyer of the Year
US News Best Law Firms 2021
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    Over $100 Million RecoveredOur results speak for themselves, and our team is dedicated to winning for you.
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    AV-Rated With Martindale HubbellWe are ranked by the most prestigious peer review rating an attorney can receive for high ethical standards and professional ability.
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    Over 65 Years of ExperienceWith over 65 years of combined experience, our attorneys know what it takes to win for you while adhering to the highest ethical standards.
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Fighting for Your Rights & Best Interests

At Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather, our team comprises real trial attorneys and litigators with decades of experience in personal injury law. While we strive to help our clients resolve their cases as quickly and efficiently as possible, we also recognize that it’s sometimes necessary to go to trial. When it comes to fighting for their clients’ best interests, our attorneys won’t just settle cases; if needed, they are fully prepared to represent you in court.

Insurance companies know that we are willing to do whatever it takes to pursue maximum compensation for our clients. Our meticulous approach to case preparation, as well as our aggressive litigation strategies, have earned us a reputation as one of Florida’s toughest personal injury firms.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Florida?

According to the Florida Statutes section 95.11(3)(a), Florida gives claimants two years to file a personal injury claim before the statute of limitations runs out. Set on a state by state basis, the statute of limitations is a law which limits how long injury victims have to file a personal injury claim.

Specifically for personal injury law, this means you have two years from the date your injury occurred to file your claim, or you will almost certainly lose your right to file along with your right to pursue compensation, no matter how severe your injuries are. It’s important to note that there are exceptions to this two-year time limit. The most notable of which include:

  • If the injury victim has been deemed legally incapacitated, such as a mental illness
  • If the alleged negligent party leave the state before a lawsuit can be filed
  • If the alleged negligent party intentionally conceals their identity in order to avoid a lawsuit

The statute of limitations has a big impact on your ability to file a claim so it’s important to speak to an experienced attorney about the specifics of your case as soon as you can. The West Palm Beach personal injury attorneys at Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather offers free, no-obligation consultations so you have nothing to lose by contacting our firm today.

Who We Are

The Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather team is made up of experienced and award-winning legal professionals, all of whom are dedicated to protecting your rights and maximizing your recovery. Our partner attorneys and associates have extensive litigation experience, and our caring support staff is always available to provide the information and assistance you need to navigate the legal process.

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Who We Are

What We Do

We devote 100% of our practice to personal injury law. Our attorneys have a long history of success in all types of personal injury cases, including car accident cases, premises liability claims, medical malpractice lawsuits, and much more. No matter how complex your case may be, our Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm and Florida statewide personal injury lawyers are ready to help you navigate the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you are facing so that you can begin to heal. Browse our practice areas to learn more about the types of cases we handle and how our team can assist you.

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Fighting for Equal Justice for the Injured
We're Dedicated to Helping You

Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather represents clients in all types of personal injury cases throughout the state of Florida. Our service areas include Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Jupiter, Lake Worth, Naples, Palm Beach County, Palm Beach Gardens, Port St. Lucie, Stuart, Wellington, West Palm Beach, and all of the surrounding areas. Wherever you live, or wherever your injury occurred, our firm is ready to provide the personalized and attentive legal service you need. After a serious accident or injury, help is just a call away. Reach out to our Florida personal injury attorneys today to learn how we can fight for you. Your initial consultation is free, and there are no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you!

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