The Testimony of a Damages Expert can Help Demonstrate the Value of Your Accident Case
Expert witness testimony is very important in both establishing liability and calculating damages when dealing with a lawsuit stemming from a vehicular rollover accident. Damages can be slightly confusing because certain damages can be recovered in certain types of claims and not in others. That is why it is important to have an expert explain clearly what amount may be awarded depending on how liability is allocated among the parties.
This article will explain the different types of damages that can be awarded in rollover cases and the necessity for retaining an expert witness to assess the possible damages that can be recovered and explain them in layman's terms to a jury.
What are the Qualifications of an Expert?
Expert witnesses are exactly what the name says that they are, experts in their particular field. An expert does not necessarily mean that they are doctors or engineers or other professions that society views as requiring extensive education and knowledge. In order to qualify as an 'expert witness' and be able to testify in front of a jury there are certain things that must be established that will allow this testimony to be admitted as evidence in support of your case.
These five things must be proved to allow a person to qualify as an expert in their specific field:
- Skill - This person has the requisite skill required for that field.
- Experience - They have experience in that field that would be considered standard.
- Training - They are trained in that field, as expected by industry standards.
- Knowledge - They are knowledgeable in that field.
- Education - They have the required education expected for that field.
What Kind of Damages Can I Recover in a Rollover Case?
Initially, you need to make sure that you contact your insurance company following the accident because they do provide some coverage. Under Texas law, there are two types of damages that are available in personal injury cases, general damages and special damages. General damages are subjective and depend on your specific case, which is where expert testimony can help you. If an expert illustrates the severity of your particular injury, you can receive a higher sum because of the impact this testimony will have on the jury. Comparatively, special damages are those damages that are economic and much more objective, such as your medical expenses and any lost wages because of your inability to go to work.
How Will Expert Witness Testimony Help Prove my Damages?
The benefit of expert witness testimony cannot be overemphasized when it comes to the amount that you can recover in compensation for your losses. A person that is specialized in a particular field and possesses the requisite education and training expected by industry standards can illustrate your particular plight to the members of the jury. If the jurors are able to understand what you went through, then the likelihood of them reaching a verdict in your favor increases exponentially. At Grossman Law Offices, we have a great deal of experience with these kinds of cases in both Texas & Arkansas, and we understand the importance of expert testimony to guarantee you receive the compensation you deserve. To discuss your case, contact us at (855) 326-0000.
