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.

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.

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.

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.

• Boca Raton
• Boynton Beach
• Delray Beach
• Fort Pierce
• Jupiter
• Lake Worth
• Naples
• Palm Beach Gardens
• Port St. Lucie
• Stuart & Treasure Coast
• Wellington
• West Palm Beach

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.