5 Types of Expert Witnesses in Car Accident Cases

On TV and in movies, “expert witnesses” often play the role of hero or spoiler at a trial, dropping unusual facts or unearthing key information on which a case hinges.

But at real-world law firms and in actual courtrooms, expert witnesses play a more subdued, but no less vital, role in court cases. Most commonly, expert witnesses provide in-depth analysis relevant to their profession and assist attorneys in better understanding the circumstances around an accident.

If you have been involved in a car accident and are seeking representation, your Chicago accident attorney may call in expert witnesses to strengthen and prove your case. Here’s what you need to know about witnesses and how they may impact proceedings.

What are the types of witnesses?

There are generally two kinds of witnesses who may assist during a personal injury case.

An on-the-scene witness saw the accident occur. These eyewitnesses generally relay what they saw and remember to law enforcement agencies and insurance claims adjusters as they work to determine fault and liability.

An expert witness, on the other hand, provides in-depth information and analysis based on their experience in a particular field. This is often more technical and nuanced than on-the-scene witness testimony, and it generally helps solve disputes over the circumstances surrounding an accident and any potential impacts.

What are some examples of expert witnesses in Chicago car accident cases?

Expert witnesses work, have training, specialize, or study a particular field and are qualified to discuss it in depth. They are typically asked to settle a dispute over a particular aspect of a case. If you are trying to convince a jury that an accident is responsible for a particular injury, for example, you may enlist a medical expert to look at the facts and determine whether an accident could have plausibly caused those injuries.

But a medical expert is just one type of expert witness that may be enlisted in your case. Expert witnesses may include some of the following.

• Medical expert: An independent practitioner may be called on to review your injury and give reports or opinions as needed. Medical experts come in many forms, and the type of expert you may require depends on the needs of the case and nature of your injury.
• Mental health expert: A medical health expert can discuss whether (or how) an injury has impacted your mental and emotional well-being, as well as your quality of life.
• Highway safety expert: An independent engineer or highway safety expert may be asked to testify about the road or transportation conditions leading up to or surrounding your accident.
• Accident reconstruction expert: These experts are typically experienced in rebuilding the chain of events that led up to the accident. This may, in turn, create a link between your accident and any injuries sustained.
• Economists: If you miss time from work or struggle to pay bills in the wake of an injury, an economist can discuss your employment needs or abilities, as well as any potential wages lost as a result of your injury.

How An Attorney Can Help You

A qualified, resourceful, and knowledgeable attorney can find and work with expert witnesses who can help your case.

Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. helps victims recover and restart their lives following a devastating car accident. An experienced Chicago lawyer can discuss the need to file a claim against the reliable party, fill out necessary paperwork, work with expert witnesses, and seek just compensation on your behalf. That settlement may assist with relevant medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and more.

Our car accident attorneys serve clients throughout the Chicago area, including Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, and Waukegan. If you’ve been involved in a Chicago car accident, it is vital to reach out and seek legal assistance as soon as possible. Contact Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. today to receive a free consult and discuss your case with an experienced attorney at (312) 236-2900.