In California, you're entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering in an auto collision. However, the at-fault driver's insurance company may dispute your claim no matter how clear-cut the cause of the accident.
You need the help of a skilled car accident attorney if the insurance carrier is trying to deny your claim or pay less than you deserve. He'll conduct a thorough investigation of your accident and collect the evidence you need to prove your case. Depending on the disputes in your case, he may recommend that you hire an expert witness.
What Is an Expert Witness?
This individual has expertise in a field based on his education and work experience. They'll analyze evidence and other information to draw a conclusion about a contentious issue, such as the cause of your accident.
Once he completes the investigation, he'll provide you with a written report outlining his findings. You can use it to convince an insurance adjuster to settle your claim for reasonable compensation. In addition, your expert witness can testify
if your case goes to a jury trial.
It's essential to find a reliable expert witness who can explain their conclusions in a way the jury understands and finds compelling. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will have a network of qualified experts.
Types of Expert Witness Helpful in Car Accident Cases
Not all car accident victims need to hire expert witnesses to resolve their claims. But specific disputes frequently require more proof and support to rectify your claim. Here are the typical industry-specific professionals often used in auto collision cases.
Medical Experts
If you're seeking compensation for car wreck injuries, you'll most likely need a medical expert. A physician can testify about the cause of your injuries, treatments you need, and your final prognosis. If you suffered long-term injuries, this expert explains the types of medical treatments you could need throughout your life. In addition, they can describe aspects of pain and suffering, and how your injuries impact your future.
Accident Reconstructionist
If the cause of your collision is in dispute, an accident reconstruction expert helps recreate how it occurred. He may use models, diagrams, or sophisticated computer programs to demonstrate the accident scenario. He can also determine the speed of the vehicles, force of impact, the direction they were traveling, and other factors about your case.
Highway Safety Expert
If road conditions caused or contributed to your accident, your legal counsel may bring in an engineer. This professional should understand state and federal regulations on road design and construction and how they may have been violated in your case.
Economic Expert
Your wage loss claim can be complex if you'll be off work for an extended time in the future, must make a career change due to your injuries, or become permanently disabled. An economist calculates the amount of your future wage losses or lost earning capacity. He may also help you determine how much your future medical expenses will be.
Vocational Expert
If your injuries limit the kind of work you can do, vocational experts explain job duties you can perform now. They can also testify why you can no longer work at all if you're permanently disabled due to your injuries.
Mental Health Expert
You may have suffered psychological as well as physical injuries in your accident. A psychologist or other mental health expert can testify about how your mental and emotional condition and quality of life were affected.
If you were injured in a car accident in San Diego or Southern California, I can help you collect the evidence you need to hold the negligent driver accountable and advise you on the experts with the skills for resolving disputes with insurance carriers. Start a live chat now to schedule your free consultation to learn more about how I can assist you.
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