If you are pursuing a complicated personal injury case, then you will probably need an expert witness to shed more light on some aspects of your case. Below are some of the issues with which an expert witness can help you.
Future Medical Costs
Medical bills form a huge part of damages in many personal injury claims. As an injury victim, you deserve compensation for both your past and future medical costs. Unfortunately, it is not easy to determine future medical costs, and the defendant is likely to disagree with you on any amount you may raise. An expert witness can help shed more light on your future medical costs so that you can get the damages you deserve.
In this case, a medical expert will probably be a medical doctor specialized in your type of injury. Such a person is best trained to shed more light on the type of treatments you may need, and how long you might need them.
Future Loss of Income
In addition to medical costs, loss of income is another significant part of personal injury damages. Again, the damages ought to cover both past and future loss of income. Unfortunately, the determination of future loss of income is not that easy. You have to account for your projected duration of disability, future promotions, possible change of career, industry growth, and even the overall economy. An expert witness can help put all these factors into perspective so that everyone can have a better idea of your future loss of income.
Disability Assessment
If an accident leaves you disabled, then the person liable for the accident should compensate you for the disability and its associated losses. For example, if you have lost a leg, you should be compensated not only for the loss of the leg but also for the things you might be unable to do due to the missing leg.
Unfortunately, not all disabilities are as clear-cut as a lost limb. Some disabilities are not easy to understand and need the clarification of an expert witness. For example, if you have experienced paralysis after an accident, you may need an expert witness to explain the extent of the paralysis. If you are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you may need an expert witness to explain the extent of the condition and its effect on your life.
Your personal injury lawyer will let you know whether you need an expert witness. Listen to your lawyer's advice since they have the experience to know the best approach to give your case.
Share