Unlike on-the-scene witnesses who testify about what they saw and heard, expert witnesses are individuals the court considers to have special qualifications, skills, education, and experience in their field. They offer a qualified opinion on subjects in which they have expertise, such as the causes and effects of auto accident injuries.
When an injury case triggers complicated issues that the plaintiff and defendant can’t agree on, a qualified New York Auto Injury Expert may need to hire one or more expert witnesses. While expert witness testimony isn’t always taken as fact, it can be highly influential in a jury’s decision.
While there are many types of experts, those that most commonly serve in a car accident claim include:
Medical Experts
A medical expert can testify about the severity of your injuries and what long-term impact you can expect them to have on your health. This type of expert can be one of your treating doctors or it may be a specialist called in to review your injuries. Medical experts also provide opinions about any ongoing treatment that you will require.
Accident Reconstruction Experts
When a collision happens, the other driver’s insurance company will often argue that you are to blame for the accident. Expert reconstruction experts can help your attorney build a strong case for you by using models and other technical devices to show how the crash occurred and how it caused your injuries.
Economists
When your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous employment or earning capacity, an economist can analyze how much your lost income has cost you and help your attorney calculate your economic damages. Experts can also provide an estimate of your future expenses, which you may need to include in your claim.
Psychological Experts
If you have suffered a mental or emotional injury as a result of your auto accident, a psychological expert can testify about the impact of that injury on your quality of life. This can help your attorney build a strong argument for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering.
Choosing the right expert is essential for an effective personal injury lawsuit. Your lawyer will know which experts are the best fit for your case and how to work with them to make sure they are well prepared for trial. Before you choose an expert, ask them about their experience with injury cases and how they can assist yours. Also, make sure they are familiar with the types of injuries you have sustained in your auto accident. By hiring the right experts, you can strengthen your case for a successful settlement.