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Ronald Slonaker
Florida Personal Injury Lawyer
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Case Studies

  • “I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate everything you’ve done. It really meant a lot. Thank you.”

    Client 7 – Chapter 7 Bankruptcy client:

  • “Mr. Slonaker & staff –
    I am forever grateful and I appreciate your services. Thank you so much.”

    Client 6 – Miscellaneous legal matter:

  • “Mr. Slonaker represented my husband on a felony charge. He convinced the judge our standing in the community and got the charge reduced to probation. Thank goodness we had an attorney and his assistants that really cared and worked very hard for us! Would definitely recommend!”

    Client 5 – Criminal Defense:

  • “I retained Mr. Slonaker for my criminal defense case. Ron exemplified the qualities of an attorney I expected and handled my case in the most professional manner. I would highly recommend Ron and his law firm to any prospective client.”

    Client 4 – Criminal Defense:

  • “Thank you very much for all your help over the past 4 ½ years. Without your fighting for me, I would have got nowhere!!! There is no doubt we will recommend you to any of our friends who happen to need a good lawyer. Thanks Again.”

    Client 3- Slip and Fall Injury Case:

  • “I wanted to take the time to write and thank you for the wonderful job you and your staff did for me.

    As you know, a mutual friend recommended you, but sometimes that isn’t always a good thing. But, I could not have been more pleased.

    You showed that you cared about me not just the case, which was my first impression that meant a lot.

    Every time I called either your secretary knew the answer or she got with you and called me back with the answer. Not once did my questions go without a call back either from you or her, and I greatly appreciated that. Everything was done in a timely manner. I knew going into this my case wasn’t easy, but you came through. Thank you.

    You are one attorney I know I will recommend with complete confidence that you will measure up to expectations because you did mine.”

    Client 2 – Auto Accident Personal Injury:

  • “This is the first time I ever needed a lawyer for anything and am very grateful a friend recommended Mr. Slonaker to me. He and his staff are very professional, compassionate and were always available at any time to answer all questions or address any concerns. Often, Mr. Slonaker answered his office phone personally. All aspects of my case were clearly explained and I always knew the steps he was taking to present my case. We settled through mediation and were pleased with the outcome and happy to avoid a trial. I would not hesitate to recommend Mr. Slonaker, and would definitely contact him again should I need legal representation or advice.”

    Client 1 – Car Accident – Personal Injury:

  • The following notes and cards were recently received by clients I have been able to help. The notes are set forth as they were originally received without any additions or deletions.

    Client Testimonials and Thank Yous:

  • My client was riding a motorcycle and pulled out onto the roadway from a tavern and was hit broadside by a car. As a result of the accident, my client’s lower leg had to be amputated.

    I was able to determine that the car had $100,000 of liability insurance available and was able to obtain a settlement for my client of that amount.

    The reason for the settlement was the fact that while most of the fault was on the part of my client, I was able to prove that the car was traveling above the posted speed limit and that the speed was evidence of a small amount of comparative fault or negligence on the car driver’s part.

    This case is an example of the fact that an injured person can be mainly at fault in an accident and still recover a settlement for personal injuries.

    Client 12 – Motorcycle accident – leg amputation:

  • My client was riding as a passenger in a car being driven by her daughter in Jacksonville, Fl. While stopped at an off-ramp from I-95, my client’s car was rear ended and totaled. My client incurred neck injuries, and it was recommended that she undergo surgery but she did not want to have the operation.

    Due to the low offer first made by the insurance company, my client decided that she wanted me to sue the other driver.

    A short time after the law suit was filed, a mediation was conducted and the case settled for $85,000, which was $50,000 more than the insurance company had offered prior to the lawsuit being filled.

    Client 11 – Jacksonville car accident settles for $82,500 after lawsuit is filed:

  • My client’s truck was rear-ended while he was sitting at a red light on SR 200, west of Ocala, Fl. As a result of the crash, our client was unable to work as a gardener for a period of time and was diagnosed with having injured his neck and back.

    On my client’s behalf I argued that my client had preexisting arthritis problems in his neck, which were severely aggravated by the accident. The insurance company argued that the accident only caused my client some sprains and strains which were minor in nature.

    While I suggested that a lawsuit be filed, my client wished to return to his home in Puerto Rico and directed us to accept the insurance companies offer of $35,000 to settle his case.

    Client 10 – Whiplash case settled for $35,000

  • My client was injured in a car accident where the other driver was clearly at fault and in which both cars were totaled. In the accident, my client’s primary injury was a fractured great toe. Unfortunately, the fractured toe did not heal properly and caused medical complications regarding a birth defect involving bone growth.

    Our client decided to accept the settlement amount of $35,000 to settle his case quickly; although, I recommended that he file suit. As always, the decision when to settle a case and for how much is that of the client.

    Client 9 – Car accident settles for $35,000 due to broken toe causing aggravation of preexisting congenital problems:

  • My client was in a car accident in which there was very little property damage done to her car. The client had an extensive history of preexisting problems to multiple parts of her body due to a prior car crash and a prior work-related accident.

    I was able to establish that her prior injuries were aggravated in the car accident.

    I was able to obtain $10,000 under her PIP auto insurance to help pay her medical bills. I settled her accident case for a combined amount of $17,819.52, which included payments by both the insurance company for the other driver as well as a payment under her own Underinsured Motorist benefits of her car insurance policy.

    Client 8 – $17,819.52 settlement – low impact accident:

  • While my practice is now almost exclusively representing those injured in accidents, I have a few defense cases. One such case went to trial in April and is considered a “win,” even though the jury awarded the Plaintiff a money judgment.

    My client had offered the person “claiming” to be injured $7,500 to settle her case before trial, and she refused to accept that amount and demanded $25,000.00.

    After a two-day trial and various motions filed after the trial, the Plaintiff was only awarded $3,300.00 for her net verdict amount. As the jury verdict amount was less then the pre-trial offer to settle, this case is considered “a win”.

    Client 7 – Auto Accident Trial:

  • We represented this client in regard to a “hit and run” automobile accident. Our client was walking on the shoulder alongside a major roadway. A “hit and run” car struck the client and caused serious injuries to him, primarily to his knee and leg.

    The “hit and run” car was never found.

    We were able to have $10,000 of his hospital and treating doctors’ medical bills paid under his household car insurance policy. We then made a demand to settle his “Uninsured/Underinsured” personal injury claim for the available policy limits of $50,000.00.

    The insurance company offered the policy limits within 30 days of our demand for settlement.

    Client 6 – Pedestrian “Hit and Run” settled for $50,000 Uninsured Motorist Coverage Insurance:

  • Our client was in a car owned by her daughter and being driven by her grandson, who was taking her to her job where she worked as a CNA providing care to an elderly person. As her grandson drove north on Pine Avenue in Ocala, FL, another car made a left-hand turn in front of their car, causing a severe accident in which both cars were totaled.

    Our client was first taken to a local hospital and from there was transported to Shands Hospital with severe leg and knee injuries. Our client underwent orthopedic surgery to her knee and fractures and was admitted to the hospital for further care. After she was released from the hospital she remained under the care and treatment of her orthopedic surgeon.

    We were able to have the daughter’s car insurance policy pay $10,000 in PIP benefits toward her medical bills. We were then able to have Shands Hospital, which had asserted a lien for the client’s hospital treatment against any injury settlement she received, reduce that lien by 25 percent, thereby putting more settlement money in our client’s pocket.

    The other car only had $100,000 in Bodily Injury Insurance Coverage and the driver was judgment proof. We demanded and the insurance company paid the full $100,000.00 to our client.

    As the client was a senior citizen we also reduced our fee considerably which allowed more net settlement proceeds to be paid to her.

    Client 5 – Ocala T-Bone car accident settled for $100,000.00: (Senior Citizen Discount given)

  • Our client was riding as a passenger in a family mini-van being driven by her husband, along with their two very young boys who were in the back seat. The clients were driving on Marricamp Road towards Ocala from the Silver Springs Shores area in a 55 mph zone when an elderly woman driver going the other way made an abrupt left turn in front of the client’s vehicle, causing a “T-Bone” crash.

    Our client’s mini-van was totaled from the impact, and our client and her two sons were rushed to the hospital by ambulance where they were treated and released.

    In the accident, the mother received a serious knee injury. A few weeks after the accident, the injured knee gave way; she fell and hurt her arm and shoulder.

    We successfully argued with the insurance company that all of the injuries, including the arm and shoulder, were due to the negligence and fault of its insured driver.

    Ultimately the insurance company agreed and paid the mother the available policy limits of $100,000.00. We then settled one of the boy’s claims, who fortunately was not injured that severely, for $4,500.00. The remaining son is still under active treatment for the injuries he incurred.

    Client 4 – Mother and Son Car Accident – $104,500 settlement:

  • Our client was riding his motorcycle behind another motorcycle when a saddle bag on the lead motorcycle fell off and into the path of our client’s motorcycle. Our client attempted to swerve his motorcycle and in doing so put his foot down on the pavement causing a wrenching type injury to his ACL in the knee.

    We were able to prove that the saddle bag on the first motorcycle had been removed the day before the accident by a repair shop and that the owner had prior problems with the bag coming lose as a result of dropping the motorcycle in the past.

    On behalf of our client, we made a claim against the first motorcycle rider’s insurance company and the repair shop’s insurance company and were able to settle our client’s case for the combined sum of $150,000.00.

    I then discounted my fee from 33 1/3% to 25% (plus costs) for this client, as he had just retired from the military, as a thank you to him for the service to our country.

    I offer the same discounts to former and current military service persons and their families, as well as to senior citizens. Please call for details and conditions.

    Client 3 – Motorcycle Accident – Injured Knee $150,000 Settlement (Military discount given)

  • Our client incurred serious injuries to her low back and tailbone area due to a “slip and fall” accident at the defendant’s business, a local restaurant. Our client had gone to the restaurant for lunch with a friend and while walking down a hallway toward the restrooms, our client slipped and fell on her buttocks due to a large accumulation of water on a tile floor coupled with inadequate lighting in the hallway.

    The restaurant manager agreed to pay our client’s emergency room bills, but when she returned with the bills two weeks later, she found the business had closed.

    I was able to find out which insurance company insured the business and contacted them in an effort to settle our client’s injury claim. The insurance company initially offered $10,000 to settle.

    I then filed suit on behalf of our client and after that was able to settle with them on the client’s behalf for $225,000.

    Client 2 – Slip and Fall – Settlement for $225,000 after a lawsuit was filed:

  • Our client was an “over-the-road” truck driver who was involved in an accident in Flagstaff, AZ in May 2011. Our client’s rig was rear-ended by another tractor trailer on a wet interstate highway.

    My client called me soon after the accident and I directed him to go to a hospital emergency room. When my client returned to Ocala, FL we assisted him in getting the necessary medical care he required. Eventually, our client had to have both neck and back surgery and incurred medical bills over $230,000 and had been unable to work since his accident.

    I first filed a lawsuit against his health and disability insurance company, which refused to pay his medical bills, and was able to get them to pay his temporary total disability benefits while that lawsuit proceeds in court.

    I was able to find out that the truck causing the accident had insurance coverage of $1,000,000.00 for this accident. After prolonged negotiations with that insurance company I convinced them to pay the full amount of that policy and recovered $998,400 for our clients injuries, with $1,600 being paid for the property damage to the truck being driven by our client.

    The total time between this accident and settlement of the case was less then 16 months.

    Client 1 – Tractor Trailer Truck Accident in Arizona – Settled for $1 million dollars without trial:
Read All Case Studies

Practice Areas

Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers in Ocala, Fl

Auto Accident & Personal Injury Attorney Ronald Slonaker

Quick Links on the page

Based in Ocala, FL (Marion County) with services extending throughout Central Florida

Suffering a serious injury in an accident can greatly impact your life. In addition to the physical pain you have to endure, medical bills can put a serious strain on your finances.Ocala motorcycle accident lawyer

If your injury prevents you from going back to work for an extended or indefinite period of time, it can be immensely stressful wondering how you will earn a living and provide for yourself and your family.

If you were injured in an accident or lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to receive compensation for damages.

Quality Representation You Can Trust

You need someone on your side who will help guide you through the emotional and physical healing process, as well as help you get the justice you and your family deserve.

Personal injury victims and families of lost loved ones in Marion County have come to rely on the Slonaker Law Firm in their hour of need.

Lead Attorney Ronald Slonaker provides each client with personalized one-on-one service, which is something you’d be hard pressed to find at a larger firm. He is dedicated to helping his clients obtain the maximum compensation available and will passionately advocate for your best interests at every stage of your claim or lawsuit.

As a former police officer and insurance defense attorney, Slonaker brings a unique blend of expertise and perspective to every case he takes on.

No matter what type of injury you have sustained, Slonaker knows how to negotiate effectively with insurance companies to get you a fair settlement. If the insurance company or at-fault party is unwilling to accept liability or offer proper compensation, Slonaker will not hesitate to aggressively fight for your rights in court.

Call today to schedule a Free case evaluation. 352-777-8176.

If you are unable to meet at our office for a consultation, Attorney Slonaker can arrange to visit your hospital room or your home to discuss your legal needs.

Slonaker Law Firm offers skilled representation in all types of personal injury cases, including:

Types of Injuries

Injuries caused by accidents can range from mild to catastrophic.

The most common types of injuries associated with accidents and personal injury claims include:

  • Open and closed head injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Neck injuries and whiplash
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Burns
  • Damage to soft tissue and internal organs
  • Blood loss
  • Repetitive motion injuries

Ocala spinal cord personal injury attorneyIf you have suffered a severe injury in an accident, we may be able to help you collect damages for compensation beyond that which is available through insurance claims.

These injuries are typically classified as “severe”:

  • Paralysis
  • Loss of limb/s or other body part
  • Brain damage
  • Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement
  • Death

Get The Compensation You Deserve:

A serious injury following an accident in Central Florida can be very expensive. Medical expenses and property damage costs can easily exceed hundreds of thousands of dollars

lawyer for personal injury compensation in Marion County

Depending upon the specifics of your case, Slonaker Law Firm can help you recover:

  • Past, current, and future medical expenses related to your injury and recovery
    • emergency room, hospital or clinic visits
    • surgery
    • medication
    • physical therapy
    • lab tests, x-rays, MRIs, CT Scans and any other tests or exams
    • medical aids like crutches and slings
    • gas mileage and parking fees for medical-related travel
  • Past, current and future wages and other earnings lost due to the accident
    • lost income can be verified with a letter from your employer detailing your normal pay rate, the hours you lost, and the total amount of compensation you lost by not being able to work due to your injury.
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Personal property damage
    • cost of repairs (if your vehicle was totaled, an amount representing its fair market value)
    • personal items damaged in the accident (laptops, jewelry, cell phone, etc.)
  • Disability
  • Permanent disfigurement or disability
  • Pain and suffering, emotional distress
  • Loss of consortium (interference with family relationships)
  • Wrongful Death (lost wages, medical expenses, funeral costs)

Types of Personal Injury Claims in Florida And Theory of Liability

Personal Injury TestimonialYou are entitled to file a personal injury claim in Florida if you have been injured in an accident that someone else caused through
careless actions, recklessness or negligence. The responsible parties can be individuals, small, medium or large businesses and government agencies.

Ocala Slip and Fall Lawyer:

Slip and Fall Accident Claims: If you slipped or fell on property owned by someone else, the owner may be held liable if he/she was aware of the dangerous condition and failed to correct it.

Product Liability Lawsuit: If you were hurt by a product that was defective, the manufacturer or distributor may be held liable.

Workers’ Compensation Law: Employers in Florida are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If you are injured on the job or developed an occupational illness, your employer and/or their insurance carrier is responsible for compensating you for medical expenses and lost wages while you are out of work. If your injury was caused by a third-party, you may be able to file a personal injury claim in addition to receiving workers’ comp benefits.

Wrongful Death/Medical Malpractice Cases: If your loved one was killed as the result of a negligent or reckless act you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Doctors and other medical professionals must adhere to a standard of care.

Auto Accident Claims: In car accidents only, Florida follows a no-fault system. This means that if you were in an auto accident, you would rely on your own insurance coverage to pay for your medical bills and lost income regardless of whether someone else caused your accident.

The only circumstance in which you may be able to sue a negligent party for additional damages would be if your injuries meet or exceed the personal injury “threshold.”

In Florida, this is defined as:

  • Loss of an important bodily function, or
  • Permanent injury within a reasonable degree of medical probability other than scarring or disfigurement, or
  • Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement, or
  • Death.

Your treating physician’s medical opinion will be instrumental in determining whether or not your injury is permanent and meets the injury threshold.

To get an accurate assessment of your condition, he/she will have to wait until your treatment has progressed to the point where you have reached Maximum Medical Improvement or MMI. MMI means that your recovery will not get better or worse with future treatment but is as “good as it gets”

Once you have reached MMI, your doctor will assign you a disability rating. The higher the disability rating in most circumstances, the greater the value the insurance company is likely to place on your case.

Auto Insurance Requirements in Florida:

florida-personal-injury-attorneys

Personal Injury Protection

In Florida, you are legally required to obtain Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. PIP will pay 80% of your medical
expenses and 60% of your lost wages up to a maximum of $10,000.

Regardless of whether you were at fault, PIP will still pay your medical bills and lost wages.

If a loved one was killed in a car accident, no-fault insurance will provide compensation to the survivors for the income your deceased would have made, usually limited to a maximum amount per month for a set time period.

Medical Payments Coverage

Under your own insurance policy, you may have coverage called Medical Payments Coverage, or Med Pay, in the amount of $5,000. If your PIP covers 80% of your medical expenses, Med Pay will cover the remaining 20%.

Med Pay is available for motor vehicle accidents and accidents at a premises.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is not required in Florida, but it can be one of the best ways to protect yourself after an accident. Unfortunately, nearly a quarter of Florida drivers do not have auto insurance. In fact, the state has the fifth highest rate of uninsured drivers in the nation.

If your accident was caused by an uninsured driver, we would make a claim for you under your own uninsured motorist coverage. If you don’t have UM coverage, you may be able to seek coverage under another policy (member of your household). Attorney Slonaker can discuss these options with you.

If the person who caused the accident has liability insurance but the coverage does not adequately compensate you for your injuries, we could make a claim for you under your own underinsured motorist coverage. Your insurance carrier would then cover the difference up to the limits of your policy.

Tips To Protect Your Rights After An Accident

There are certain basic steps you can take after an accident that can protect your rights and strengthen your claim.

  • Notify the Authorities: Always call law enforcement to the scene of an accident, even if injuries are minor and there is limited property damage. If it’s a work injury, notify your manager.
  • Seek medical attention as soon as possible after your injury (no later than 14 days). Make sure to notify the doctor of all your aches and pains.
  • Gather information from other parties involved in the accident. Take pictures and/or video of accident scene.
  • Do not admit fault to other parties or to witnesses.
  • Do not provide a written or recorded statement for an insurance adjuster and do not to sign any documents without consulting a lawyer.

Should I File A Personal Injury Claim or Lawsuit?

If your accident and subsequent injury was due to the negligence of someone else, you have two options for legal recourse:

  • file a personal injury claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company; or
  • file a lawsuit against the at-fault party directly

Going the Claims Route…

Auto accident claims lawyer who also does injury casesThe personal injury claims process involves participating in a series of negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance adjuster. The goal is to reach a settlement that adequately and fairly compensates you for your losses.

Unfortunately, insurance adjusters don’t always have your best interests at heart and can be very difficult to negotiate with. In fact, they will often try to minimize their payout to you in order to achieve high profit margins for their shareholders.

It’s very common for an insurance adjuster to offer a quick settlement. This may sound great but don’t take the bait!

The first settlement offers are usually much lower than the true value of your claim and can leave you without the necessary funds to cover all your expenses.

However, with Attorney Slonaker on your side, the insurance company won’t be able to take advantage of you. Early in his career, Slonaker was a defense attorney for insurance companies — he knows how the other side operates! He can negotiate directly with the adjuster on your behalf and will make sure you get nothing less than you deserve.

Filing a lawsuit…

If negotiations breakdown and an adequate settlement offer can’t be reached through mediation or arbitration, the next step to consider is filing a lawsuit. Many claims for serious injuries or wrongful death are not able to be resolved in settlement and end up in court.

Deadline for Filing A Claim or Lawsuit in Florida:

 

Every state has a statute of limitations, or time frame, to abide by when filing a claim or lawsuit. In Florida, most personal injury cases must be filed within four years of the date of the accident.

Medical malpractice suits are subject to a two year statute of limitations from the date that you knew of the malpractice.

Wrongful death suits are subject to a two year statute from the date of death.

Failure to file within the statute of limitations may result in your right to recover monetary damages.

The Lawsuit Process: What To Expect

Personal injury lawyer for car accidents near Ocala, FLIf negotiations do not proceed as smoothly as we’d like, we will file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf. This is often the last resort, but sometimes necessary if the adjuster continues to deny that you were seriously injured and doesn’t offer proper compensation.

Step 1: Filing The Petition

The lawsuit begins with us filing a petition in the Circuit Court. The alleged at-fault party would then be served with the Petition and given 20 days to file an answer or response.

Step 2: Discovery

Before trial, both sides are allowed to engage in an information gathering process known as discovery.

In discovery, both sides can request and disclose information pertinent to the accident. This may include:

  • medical records
  • wage statements
  • property damage
  • photographs
  • police reports
  • insurance policies
  • other relevant records

To obtain this information, interrogatories or questions are sent from one party to the to be answered under oath and sent back within a certain amount of time. Depositions may also take place, in which witnesses provide testimony under oath. Doctors involved in your medical treatment may also offer testimony to offer their medical opinion on your injury.

Step 3: Mediation

95% of all lawsuits are usually settled before going to trial. In Florida, you are required to attempt to resolve your claim in an alternative dispute resolution process called mediation. If you can reach a settlement, you will avoid the risk, time, expense, and energy associated with going to trial.

Mediation is a settlement conference where the judge orders all the interested parties to sit down with a neutral mediator to try and work out an agreement.

A mediator does not decide who “wins” and who “loses.” Their job is merely to facilitate discussions aimed towards reaching a compromise.

You will not be forced to accept an offer you are not comfortable with. Attorney Slonaker will supervise the process and make sure you are getting a fair deal.

If a mutual agreement is reached, it will become legally binding through a signed agreement. Your case is over and you will be paid (usually within 2-6 weeks).

Step 4: Proceed to Trial

If efforts to reach a settlement through negotiations and alternative dispute resolutions fail, your personal injury case will continue to trial.

At trial, Attorney Slonaker will present a convincing argument on your behalf to the judge or jury, and then the party who injured you (defendant) puts on their defense. After each side presents their arguments, the judge or jury determines:

(1) if the defendant is liable (legally responsible) for your injuries and harm, and

(2) if so, the amount of damages the defendant must pay you.

How Much Is My Case Worth?

There are many factors that can impact the value of your personal injury claim. Calculating your claim’s worth can get complicated but Attorney Slonaker knows how to crunch the numbers!

To determine the “Full Value” of your claim, you would add up all your damages from your injury:

past and future medical expenses + past and future lost wages + pain and suffering

Factors that may increase the full value of your claim could include:

  • extent of liability on the alleged at-fault party
  • the permanence of your injury, disability rating
  • surgical procedures
  • taking an ambulance to hospital
  • photo evidence or video surveillance which captures the severity of the accident and injury and/or incriminates someone for causing the accident

Factors that may decrease the value of your claim could include:

  • gaps in medical treatment
  • pre-existing conditions
  • evidence that you were partially at fault for accident
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer Today:
Auto accident lawyer for personal injury casesWhen catastrophe strikes and threatens to change the outcome of your future, it is critical that you contact a seasoned Florida personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case.

Regardless of what kind of accident you or a loved one were involved in, an injury lawyer in Florida can help you get through this difficult time step-by-step.The Slonaker Law Firm, LLC has substantial experience working with individuals and families who have been the victims of an accident and is well-prepared to fight for your rights.

Ronald Slonaker is a skilled Florida personal injury attorney who has a solid track record of success in personal injury claims. He is committed to obtaining a positive outcome for you and your loved ones after a devastating incident.

Contact the Slonaker Law Firm today to discuss the options you have available to you and to learn more about getting the compensation you deserve. Call now at: 352-777-8176.

Step 1: Filing The Petition
Step 2: Discovery
Step 3: Mediation
Step 4: Proceed to Trial

Case Studies

  • “I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate everything you’ve done. It really meant a lot. Thank you.”

    Client 7 – Chapter 7 Bankruptcy client:

  • “Mr. Slonaker & staff –
    I am forever grateful and I appreciate your services. Thank you so much.”

    Client 6 – Miscellaneous legal matter:

  • “Mr. Slonaker represented my husband on a felony charge. He convinced the judge our standing in the community and got the charge reduced to probation. Thank goodness we had an attorney and his assistants that really cared and worked very hard for us! Would definitely recommend!”

    Client 5 – Criminal Defense:

  • “I retained Mr. Slonaker for my criminal defense case. Ron exemplified the qualities of an attorney I expected and handled my case in the most professional manner. I would highly recommend Ron and his law firm to any prospective client.”

    Client 4 – Criminal Defense:

  • “Thank you very much for all your help over the past 4 ½ years. Without your fighting for me, I would have got nowhere!!! There is no doubt we will recommend you to any of our friends who happen to need a good lawyer. Thanks Again.”

    Client 3- Slip and Fall Injury Case:

  • “I wanted to take the time to write and thank you for the wonderful job you and your staff did for me.

    As you know, a mutual friend recommended you, but sometimes that isn’t always a good thing. But, I could not have been more pleased.

    You showed that you cared about me not just the case, which was my first impression that meant a lot.

    Every time I called either your secretary knew the answer or she got with you and called me back with the answer. Not once did my questions go without a call back either from you or her, and I greatly appreciated that. Everything was done in a timely manner. I knew going into this my case wasn’t easy, but you came through. Thank you.

    You are one attorney I know I will recommend with complete confidence that you will measure up to expectations because you did mine.”

    Client 2 – Auto Accident Personal Injury:

  • “This is the first time I ever needed a lawyer for anything and am very grateful a friend recommended Mr. Slonaker to me. He and his staff are very professional, compassionate and were always available at any time to answer all questions or address any concerns. Often, Mr. Slonaker answered his office phone personally. All aspects of my case were clearly explained and I always knew the steps he was taking to present my case. We settled through mediation and were pleased with the outcome and happy to avoid a trial. I would not hesitate to recommend Mr. Slonaker, and would definitely contact him again should I need legal representation or advice.”

    Client 1 – Car Accident – Personal Injury:

  • The following notes and cards were recently received by clients I have been able to help. The notes are set forth as they were originally received without any additions or deletions.

    Client Testimonials and Thank Yous:

  • My client was riding a motorcycle and pulled out onto the roadway from a tavern and was hit broadside by a car. As a result of the accident, my client’s lower leg had to be amputated.

    I was able to determine that the car had $100,000 of liability insurance available and was able to obtain a settlement for my client of that amount.

    The reason for the settlement was the fact that while most of the fault was on the part of my client, I was able to prove that the car was traveling above the posted speed limit and that the speed was evidence of a small amount of comparative fault or negligence on the car driver’s part.

    This case is an example of the fact that an injured person can be mainly at fault in an accident and still recover a settlement for personal injuries.

    Client 12 – Motorcycle accident – leg amputation:

  • My client was riding as a passenger in a car being driven by her daughter in Jacksonville, Fl. While stopped at an off-ramp from I-95, my client’s car was rear ended and totaled. My client incurred neck injuries, and it was recommended that she undergo surgery but she did not want to have the operation.

    Due to the low offer first made by the insurance company, my client decided that she wanted me to sue the other driver.

    A short time after the law suit was filed, a mediation was conducted and the case settled for $85,000, which was $50,000 more than the insurance company had offered prior to the lawsuit being filled.

    Client 11 – Jacksonville car accident settles for $82,500 after lawsuit is filed:

  • My client’s truck was rear-ended while he was sitting at a red light on SR 200, west of Ocala, Fl. As a result of the crash, our client was unable to work as a gardener for a period of time and was diagnosed with having injured his neck and back.

    On my client’s behalf I argued that my client had preexisting arthritis problems in his neck, which were severely aggravated by the accident. The insurance company argued that the accident only caused my client some sprains and strains which were minor in nature.

    While I suggested that a lawsuit be filed, my client wished to return to his home in Puerto Rico and directed us to accept the insurance companies offer of $35,000 to settle his case.

    Client 10 – Whiplash case settled for $35,000

  • My client was injured in a car accident where the other driver was clearly at fault and in which both cars were totaled. In the accident, my client’s primary injury was a fractured great toe. Unfortunately, the fractured toe did not heal properly and caused medical complications regarding a birth defect involving bone growth.

    Our client decided to accept the settlement amount of $35,000 to settle his case quickly; although, I recommended that he file suit. As always, the decision when to settle a case and for how much is that of the client.

    Client 9 – Car accident settles for $35,000 due to broken toe causing aggravation of preexisting congenital problems:

  • My client was in a car accident in which there was very little property damage done to her car. The client had an extensive history of preexisting problems to multiple parts of her body due to a prior car crash and a prior work-related accident.

    I was able to establish that her prior injuries were aggravated in the car accident.

    I was able to obtain $10,000 under her PIP auto insurance to help pay her medical bills. I settled her accident case for a combined amount of $17,819.52, which included payments by both the insurance company for the other driver as well as a payment under her own Underinsured Motorist benefits of her car insurance policy.

    Client 8 – $17,819.52 settlement – low impact accident:

  • While my practice is now almost exclusively representing those injured in accidents, I have a few defense cases. One such case went to trial in April and is considered a “win,” even though the jury awarded the Plaintiff a money judgment.

    My client had offered the person “claiming” to be injured $7,500 to settle her case before trial, and she refused to accept that amount and demanded $25,000.00.

    After a two-day trial and various motions filed after the trial, the Plaintiff was only awarded $3,300.00 for her net verdict amount. As the jury verdict amount was less then the pre-trial offer to settle, this case is considered “a win”.

    Client 7 – Auto Accident Trial:

  • We represented this client in regard to a “hit and run” automobile accident. Our client was walking on the shoulder alongside a major roadway. A “hit and run” car struck the client and caused serious injuries to him, primarily to his knee and leg.

    The “hit and run” car was never found.

    We were able to have $10,000 of his hospital and treating doctors’ medical bills paid under his household car insurance policy. We then made a demand to settle his “Uninsured/Underinsured” personal injury claim for the available policy limits of $50,000.00.

    The insurance company offered the policy limits within 30 days of our demand for settlement.

    Client 6 – Pedestrian “Hit and Run” settled for $50,000 Uninsured Motorist Coverage Insurance:

  • Our client was in a car owned by her daughter and being driven by her grandson, who was taking her to her job where she worked as a CNA providing care to an elderly person. As her grandson drove north on Pine Avenue in Ocala, FL, another car made a left-hand turn in front of their car, causing a severe accident in which both cars were totaled.

    Our client was first taken to a local hospital and from there was transported to Shands Hospital with severe leg and knee injuries. Our client underwent orthopedic surgery to her knee and fractures and was admitted to the hospital for further care. After she was released from the hospital she remained under the care and treatment of her orthopedic surgeon.

    We were able to have the daughter’s car insurance policy pay $10,000 in PIP benefits toward her medical bills. We were then able to have Shands Hospital, which had asserted a lien for the client’s hospital treatment against any injury settlement she received, reduce that lien by 25 percent, thereby putting more settlement money in our client’s pocket.

    The other car only had $100,000 in Bodily Injury Insurance Coverage and the driver was judgment proof. We demanded and the insurance company paid the full $100,000.00 to our client.

    As the client was a senior citizen we also reduced our fee considerably which allowed more net settlement proceeds to be paid to her.

    Client 5 – Ocala T-Bone car accident settled for $100,000.00: (Senior Citizen Discount given)

  • Our client was riding as a passenger in a family mini-van being driven by her husband, along with their two very young boys who were in the back seat. The clients were driving on Marricamp Road towards Ocala from the Silver Springs Shores area in a 55 mph zone when an elderly woman driver going the other way made an abrupt left turn in front of the client’s vehicle, causing a “T-Bone” crash.

    Our client’s mini-van was totaled from the impact, and our client and her two sons were rushed to the hospital by ambulance where they were treated and released.

    In the accident, the mother received a serious knee injury. A few weeks after the accident, the injured knee gave way; she fell and hurt her arm and shoulder.

    We successfully argued with the insurance company that all of the injuries, including the arm and shoulder, were due to the negligence and fault of its insured driver.

    Ultimately the insurance company agreed and paid the mother the available policy limits of $100,000.00. We then settled one of the boy’s claims, who fortunately was not injured that severely, for $4,500.00. The remaining son is still under active treatment for the injuries he incurred.

    Client 4 – Mother and Son Car Accident – $104,500 settlement:

  • Our client was riding his motorcycle behind another motorcycle when a saddle bag on the lead motorcycle fell off and into the path of our client’s motorcycle. Our client attempted to swerve his motorcycle and in doing so put his foot down on the pavement causing a wrenching type injury to his ACL in the knee.

    We were able to prove that the saddle bag on the first motorcycle had been removed the day before the accident by a repair shop and that the owner had prior problems with the bag coming lose as a result of dropping the motorcycle in the past.

    On behalf of our client, we made a claim against the first motorcycle rider’s insurance company and the repair shop’s insurance company and were able to settle our client’s case for the combined sum of $150,000.00.

    I then discounted my fee from 33 1/3% to 25% (plus costs) for this client, as he had just retired from the military, as a thank you to him for the service to our country.

    I offer the same discounts to former and current military service persons and their families, as well as to senior citizens. Please call for details and conditions.

    Client 3 – Motorcycle Accident – Injured Knee $150,000 Settlement (Military discount given)

  • Our client incurred serious injuries to her low back and tailbone area due to a “slip and fall” accident at the defendant’s business, a local restaurant. Our client had gone to the restaurant for lunch with a friend and while walking down a hallway toward the restrooms, our client slipped and fell on her buttocks due to a large accumulation of water on a tile floor coupled with inadequate lighting in the hallway.

    The restaurant manager agreed to pay our client’s emergency room bills, but when she returned with the bills two weeks later, she found the business had closed.

    I was able to find out which insurance company insured the business and contacted them in an effort to settle our client’s injury claim. The insurance company initially offered $10,000 to settle.

    I then filed suit on behalf of our client and after that was able to settle with them on the client’s behalf for $225,000.

    Client 2 – Slip and Fall – Settlement for $225,000 after a lawsuit was filed:

  • Our client was an “over-the-road” truck driver who was involved in an accident in Flagstaff, AZ in May 2011. Our client’s rig was rear-ended by another tractor trailer on a wet interstate highway.

    My client called me soon after the accident and I directed him to go to a hospital emergency room. When my client returned to Ocala, FL we assisted him in getting the necessary medical care he required. Eventually, our client had to have both neck and back surgery and incurred medical bills over $230,000 and had been unable to work since his accident.

    I first filed a lawsuit against his health and disability insurance company, which refused to pay his medical bills, and was able to get them to pay his temporary total disability benefits while that lawsuit proceeds in court.

    I was able to find out that the truck causing the accident had insurance coverage of $1,000,000.00 for this accident. After prolonged negotiations with that insurance company I convinced them to pay the full amount of that policy and recovered $998,400 for our clients injuries, with $1,600 being paid for the property damage to the truck being driven by our client.

    The total time between this accident and settlement of the case was less then 16 months.

    Client 1 – Tractor Trailer Truck Accident in Arizona – Settled for $1 million dollars without trial:

Practice Areas

Call today to schedule a Free case evaluation. 352.777.8176
If you are unable to meet at our office for a consultation, Attorney Slonaker can arrange to visit your hospital room or your home to discuss your legal needs.
Slonaker Law Firm offers skilled representation in all types of personal injury cases, including:
Types of Injuries:
Injuries caused by accidents can range from mild to catastrophic. The most common types of injuries associated with accidents and personal injury claims include:
If you have suffered a severe injury in an accident, we may be able to help you collect damages for compensation beyond that which is available through insurance claims
Injuries caused by accidents can range from mild to catastrophic. The most common types of injuries associated with accidents and personal injury claims include:“severe”:
Get The Compensation You Deserve:
A serious injury following an accident in Central Florida can be very expensive. Medical expenses and property damage costs can easily exceed hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Depending upon the specifics of your case, Slonaker Law Firm can help you recover:
Client Reviews
Excellent
Based on 9 reviews
Rachel Breland
Rachel Breland
2019-12-06
Working with personal injury attorney Mr. Ronald Slonaker was a very pleasant experience from the start to the finish. He is very professional and knows his craft. More importantly, he will do what he says as he gave me a time frame and he delivered. He and his staff get back to you in a timely manner and are exceptional. He is well worth every cent he earns for you. He is a diligent, hardworking, experienced attorney, and he got way more than I expected for my case. I am very pleased with his abilities. My family and I would give him 5 stars and many more if we could. From the first phone call to the end, I’m glad I chose him.
Melanie Haber
Melanie Haber
2019-09-07
Ron Slonaker is the best . He has helped my family a few times. Very easy to talk to and will give you the best advice. His assistant Dawn is also the most helpful and caring person.
Amanda Anderson
Amanda Anderson
2017-05-17
Ron and Dawn helped me settled my case. They got me an amount I never expected and I would recommend them to anyone. Ron is an outstanding defense attorney. They respond back to you and you get answers to your questions unlike a lot of the big firms. Ron is very laid back and always open and honest. He keeps you up to date of each step of the process so you always know what is going on in the case. He is out for your best interest as well as having an interest in what your thoughts are. Thank you Ron and Dawn for all of your hard work on my case.
Monica
Monica
2017-05-16
After 2 years being with an attorney who did absolutely nothing for me, I was very lucky to find Mr. Slonaker to represent me. Mr. Slonaker and Dawn worked extremely hard on my case got me the best settlement. Mr. Slonaker's laid back easy going manner belies his strong words when it comes to dealing with insurance companies for his clients. I highly recommend Slonaker Law Firm. If I ever needed representation I would go back to Slonaker Law Firm. Monica
Nina Seeman
Nina Seeman
2016-01-29
Ron and Dawn helped me with my auto accident case and I couldn't be happier. Their professional manner and great knowledge and hard work helped me get through a very difficult time. They got me an amount I never expected and I thank them for all the hard work they did for me. If I ever need an attorney again I would not hesitate to call Slonaker Law Firm and I would recommend them to any one who is in need of legal services. Thank you Ron and Dawn.
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SlonakeR Law Blog
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What Happens If I’m A Victim Of Malicious Prosecution In Ocala?
Posted on 04 Feb 2023, By: Ronald Slonaker
Posted in : Personal Injury leave a Comment

If you’ve been the victim of malicious prosecution, you may be wondering what legal recourse you have. This is a serious matter that can cause harm to your reputation and your livelihood, so it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and to seek legal help if necessary. Below, explore the definition and elements of […]

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Can I Sue Someone In California For A Mental Health Injury?
Posted on 31 Jan 2023, By: Ronald Slonaker
Posted in : Personal Injury leave a Comment

Mental health injuries can occur in many different ways. They can be caused by a single event, such as witnessing a car accident or being the victim of a violent crime. They can also occur in conjunction with work injuries, and chronic illnesses like cancer or HIV/AIDS can also result in mental health injuries.  Can […]

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Slonaker Personal
Injury Lawyer 108 N Magnolia Ave Ste 602 Ocala, FL 34475 352.777.8176
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The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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Copyright © 2022 All Rights Reserved

Slonaker Personal Injury Lawyer
108 N Magnolia Ave Ste 602
Ocala, FL 34475
352.777.8176
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The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.
Copyright © 2022 All Rights Reserved
Web Design by First Page Attorney