Expert witnesses play a vital role in determining the case's outcome when it comes to personal injury cases. Expert witnesses have specialized knowledge and training in a specific field and are called upon to testify in court to help the judge or jury understand technical or complex information. Expert witnesses can be game-changers in personal injury cases, providing crucial evidence and testimony to make or break a case.
1. Expert Witnesses Provide Technical and Scientific Information
In personal injury cases, expert witnesses often provide technical and scientific information that is too complex for the average person to understand. For example, if a person is injured in a car accident and the case goes to trial, an accident reconstruction expert may be called upon to testify about the cause of the accident. This expert can help the judge or jury understand complicated details of the accident, such as speed, trajectory, and impact forces. By presenting this technical information clearly and concisely, the expert can help the court decide based on facts and evidence rather than speculation or emotion.
2. Expert Witnesses Can Bolster or Weaken a Case
Expert witnesses can significantly impact the outcome of a personal injury case. Suppose an expert witness is knowledgeable, impartial, and credible. In that case, their testimony can strengthen a case and make it more likely that the injured person will receive a settlement or favorable verdict. On the other hand, if an expert witness is biased, has a conflict of interest, or lacks credibility, their testimony can weaken a case and hurt the injured person's chances of winning. That's why it's important for both sides of a personal injury case to carefully vet their expert witnesses and ensure they are qualified and trustworthy.
Types of Expert Witnesses in Personal Injury Cases
Many expert witnesses can be called upon in personal injury cases. Some common types include:
- Medical experts: These experts can provide testimony about the victim's injuries, the treatment they received, and the prognosis for recovery.
- Accident reconstruction experts: These experts can help the court understand the circumstances of an accident, including the cause and who was at fault.
- Economic experts: These experts can testify about the financial losses suffered by the victim, including lost wages, medical expenses, and future economic damages.
3. Expert Witnesses Can Help with Settlement Negotiations
Expert witnesses can also play a role in settlement negotiations outside the courtroom. An expert witness can help persuade the insurance company or defendant to offer a fair settlement by providing compelling evidence and testimony supporting the injured person's case. The mere presence of an expert witness can signal that the wounded person is serious about pursuing their claim and won't be easily deterred.
How Needham Kepner & Fish LLP Can Help
At Needham Kepner & Fish LLP, we understand expert witnesses' critical role in personal injury cases. Our experienced attorneys work closely with a network of renowned experts in various fields, ensuring that your case benefits from their specialized knowledge. Contact us today at (408) 716-1668 to get started!