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Florida Personal Injury Lawyers / Florida Personal Injury

Florida Personal Injury Lawyers

Suffering a personal injury is a life-changing experience. From the pain and suffering to the economic losses, its easy to become overwhelmed and depressed after an accident. To make matters worse, you are worried about how you will pay for medical care and handle your bills if you cannot work.

Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather has represented countless victims across the state of Florida. We focus solely on personal injury law and have represented clients who have suffered catastrophic injuries, deaths of loved ones, and other losses. While we cannot turn back the clock so our clients can avoid the injury, we have recovered millions of dollars on their behalf. We fight tirelessly for our clients, providing a voice for the voiceless.

Don’t try to negotiate with the insurance company yourself. Instead, contact our Florida personal injury law firm for help.

Types of Personal Injury Cases

Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather handles an assortment of cases. Common personal injury cases include:

Establishing Fault in Personal Injury Cases

There are four elements needed to establish fault in personal injury cases in Florida. First, the defendant must owe a duty of care to the claimant. For example, drivers have a duty to drive the speed limit and stop at red lights. Second, the defendant must have breached that duty. Using the previous example, assume that the driver drove over the speed limit and ran through a red light. That would be a clear breach of the duty of care. Third, the claimant must have sustained damages, such as an injury or property damage. Fourth, the defendant must have caused that injury.

While running a red light, hitting a vehicle, and causing serious injuries is a clear example of establishing fault, personal injury cases are usually more complex. The Florida personal injury lawyers at Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather have a vast amount of experience investigating personal injury cases and holding negligent parties responsible for the damage they cause, even in the most complex cases.

What If You Are Partially to Blame for the Accident?

If you are partially at fault for the accident, you might think you cannot recover damages. However, Florida is a pure comparative negligence state. Under Florida law, you can still file a claim and recover damages if you share the blame for the accident. However, the amount you recover will be reduced based on your level of fault. For example, if you are 10% responsible for the accident, your award will be reduced by 10%. Thus, if you are awarded $100,000, you will recover $90,000.

Some victims allow the insurance companies to assign the fault, and that is a mistake. Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather will defend you against the insurance company’s claims while presenting a strong case on your behalf for the jury.

Why Choose Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather ?

  • Free Consultation Fill out an online form or call us to discuss your case free of charge.
  • Highly Rated We have numerous 5-star reviews on Google and a rating of 10 on the legal website Avvo.
  • Proven Results Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather has secured numerous multi-million settlements and trial verdicts for clients, including a $40 million settlement for a car accident wrongful death.
  • Serving the State of Florida Our personal injury law firm is based in Palm Beach County, and we serve victims throughout the state.
  • Bilingual Law Firm Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather and our legal support team are bilingual so that clients can speak in their native language.
  • Available 24/7 Reach out to our firm any time of day or night. We are available 24/7 to serve you and help you get the compensation you deserve.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations refers to the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit after the incident occurs. The time limit varies depending on the type of claim you have. Most personal injury cases in Florida have a statute of limitations of two years. This includes car, motorcycle, and truck accidents, slip and fall, and product liability cases. Medical malpractice and wrongful death cases have a statute of limitations of two years. However, these time limitations are complex and require the assistance of an attorney. If you are unsure if the statute of limitations has passed, our team may be able to help.

Punitive Damages in Florida Personal Injury Cases

While rare, punitive damages can be awarded in cases of intentional misconduct or gross negligence. Judges award punitive damages to punish those who act with extreme negligence or disregard for others. You must provide clear and convincing evidence to prove intentional misconduct or gross negligence. Examples of cases where punitive damages might be awarded include drunk driving, drunk boating, street racing, and running a bicyclist off the road. Also, in some circumstances, failing to recall a dangerously defective product can lead to the court awarding punitive damages. Contact our Florida injury attorneys today for a free consultation.

No matter what kind of situation you find yourself in, Smith, Ball, Báez & Prather is here to help. Call us at 561-500-HELP or fill out our online contact form today to learn more about our firm.

What Sets Us Apart

Committed to Fighting for Justice for the Injured

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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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    Award-Winning AttorneysOur attorneys are committed to excellence and are recognized for their hard work with many accolades from the legal community.
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    We're Not Afraid to LitigateWe're trial lawyers at heart and don't shy away from the courtroom; we'll put our compassionate tenacity to work for you.
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    A Florida Firm With Extensive ResourcesNo case is too big; we'll utilize our large network of experts, connections in the legal community, and deep well of resources to help you win.

Real Reviews from Real Clients

We're Deeply Committed to Every Case

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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.
Read More Reviews

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