Personal Injury Lawyer
After an accident with a semi-truck, there are two types of witnesses who may be involved in the case: Those who saw what happened firsthand and those who can analyze and interpret crash data for the benefit of the court. The latter are called expert witnesses. Although they did not see what happened, they have extensive education and experience in a relevant field that allows them to present the evidence to the court in a way that makes sense. Expert witnesses are often key to success in a personal injury claim after a truck accident. Their role is to help determine whether there was negligence on the part of the driver, trucking company, equipment manufacturer, etc.
There are a number of expert witnesses who may be involved in your truck accident case. Here are a few examples.
Physicians and Psychologists
Injuries from a truck accident may be both physical and psychological in nature. A medical doctor who treated you can explain the extent of your injuries, and their long-term effects on your life, to the court, while a mental health expert who has evaluated you can describe the aftereffects you are experiencing, such as PTSD or depression.
Accident Reconstruction and Roadway Design Experts
The purpose of accident reconstruction is to determine the fault for the accident. It is typical to involve this type of expert in car accident cases. However, the process is more complex for an accident involving a semi-truck, making the role of the accident reconstruction expert even more significant.
Sometimes an accident may not be the fault of either driver but a road that is poorly designed or lacking sufficient signage. A roadway design expert can examine the area where the accident took place to make that determination.
Economists and Vocational Rehabilitation Experts
The other party or parties may acknowledge liability for the accident but try to argue that your damages are not extensive enough to deserve the settlement you are asking for. There are a lot of economic and noneconomic damages that can result from a truck accident. An economist can factor in all relevant expenses, including lost wages and medical bills, to justify the settlement amount you are seeking. A vocational rehabilitation expert can gauge your capacity to work after your accident. If this has decreased as a result of the accident, the expert can explain your loss of earning potential.
When expert witnesses demonstrate to the other side the evidence you can bring if you do go to court, the liable party or parties may be more willing to settle out of court. Contact a law office to find out how a truck accident lawyer, like from MartinWren, P.C., may be able to help your case.
Tags: Personal Injury Lawyer