Why Are Expert Witnesses Important In A Personal Injury Case?
Many personal injury cases rely on expert witnesses. By being aware of what an expert witness is and why they are essential, you can obtain the personal injury settlement that you are entitled to.
For more information on the role of expert witnesses in personal injury cases, the California personal injury attorneys at Maire & Deedon explain more below.
Who Is An Expert Witness In A Personal Injury Case?
Right before we go over who an expert witness is, with regards to a personal injury case, we must define who, exactly, an expert witness is.
Someone can be considered an expert witness if they have significant experience and knowledge that relates to a particular field beyond the knowledge and expertise of the average person.
For example, if the case centers on a severe brain injury from a car accident, a qualified neurologist will be considered an expert witness. Or, more specifically, they will be, so long as they are able to satisfy the following criteria:
- They can present expert opinions in court.
- They are willing to give their testimony.
- They can clarify factual conclusions regarding a case.
Every single one of the above is essential, as the purpose of an expert witness is to assist a judge in making a conclusion that relies on the facts of the case.
Given the definition above, an expert witness in a personal injury case is a witness with professional experience who can present facts and opinions that direct the outcome of a personal injury case.
Even though an expert witness is not always essential, it is worth considering the different types of expert witnesses and, in turn, the ways in which they can assist your case.
What Are The Different Types Of Expert Witnesses In A Personal Injury Case?
Many different types of expert witnesses can present their testimony in court. Some of the most common expert witnesses in a personal injury case are as follows:
- Physicians.
- Neurologists.
- Surgeons.
- Psychologists.
- Psychiatrists.
- Life Care Planner
- Accident Reconstructionist
- Biomechanical
- Accountant
Every single one of the above is capable of presenting expert opinions, informed facts, and valuable conclusions within their testimony.
Why Are Expert Witnesses Important In A Personal Injury Case?
A good expert witness can clarify the facts of a personal injury case and present opinions that strengthen these facts. By doing so, they can assist a judge in determining who is at fault and, in turn, the damages that should be awarded.
Even though a good expert witness can do those things, it is worth noting that a bad expert witness can harm a personal injury case.
Rather than strengthening a personal injury case, a bad expert witness can present facts in a poor, unconvincing manner and strengthen them with opinions that are easily discredited.
Given the importance of finding a good expert witness, it is essential that you work with a lawyer so that you can find an expert witness who assists you in obtaining the best possible personal injury settlement.
Speak With A Northern California Personal Injury Lawyer
A good expert witness will assist you in obtaining the best possible personal injury settlement.
For more information, speak with a Northern California personal injury lawyer at Maire & Deedon today. We will assist you in finding an expert witness who strengthens your case.