If you were seriously hurt through no fault of your own, you’re not necessarily guaranteed a payout. Only accident victims who can prove liability, causation, and damages are able to recover compensation for their losses. While the kinds of evidence you’ll need to present will depend on the circumstances, your case may benefit from the testimony of various experts. Let’s take a look at the kinds of experts that are most often called upon during tort proceedings:
1. Medical Experts
Specialists can speak on the extent of your injuries and how your condition will impact your life in the months and years to come. If you sustained a traumatic brain injury, for example, your legal team might consult neurologists and psychologists who are leaders in their respective fields. Assuming you’re comfortable with it, this would be in addition to deposing your primary care provider, physical therapist, and anyone else overseeing your rehabilitation.
2. Vocational Experts
Vocational experts refer to seasoned professionals who are well-versed in the claimant’s industry. Their testimony can serve one of two purposes during personal injury proceedings.
If the victim is able to return to work, they can speak on how his condition will hinder performance. Or, if he won’t be returning to the workforce at all, vocational experts can discuss his most likely career trajectory, which will support his claim for lost earning capacity.
3. Economic Experts
Testimony from economists comes in handy when trying to prove the extent of certain damages. Financial experts can discuss the most likely cost of anticipated surgeries, for example, as well as the expenses associated with ongoing home care and lost income and benefits.
What Other Kinds of Evidence Might Contribute to My Personal Injury Claim?
While statements from the kinds of specialists mentioned above can certainly bolster your personal injury claim, you’re going to have to present a lot more evidence to secure a payout. Naturally, the strongest pieces of proof will depend on the facts of case and the circumstances surrounding the accident in which you were hurt. Chances are, however, that they’ll likely include at least some of the following:
- Surveillance footage of the incident;
- Photographs of the scene;
- Statements from eyewitnesses;
- Any official reports;
- Medical records; and
- Invoices, bills, and receipts for injury-related expenses.
It’s also wise to start a personal injury journal as soon as possible following the accident. Daily entries about your condition and how it’s affecting your quality of life will strengthen your claim for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Speak with a Long Beach Personal Injury Lawyer
Your Injuries Are Personal to Me
At the Law Office of Michael D. Waks, we know what kinds of challenges accidental injuries can pose. If your life will never be the same because someone failed to conduct themselves with a reasonable measure of care, we’ll help you put together a strong claim for damages. To schedule your free case review with a personal injury attorney in Long Beach, call (562) 206-1939 or complete our Online Contact Form.