Expert Witnesses in San Antonio Catastrophic Injury Cases
Catastrophic injuries are extremely serious, which also means they are complex. Details are important in these cases. For this reason, a skilled attorney will frequently look for expert witnesses who can prove fault and damages if a case goes to trial. Working with experienced legal counsel can help you strengthen your claim with support.
Catastrophic injury cases are those that involve serious consequences. Under Texas law, these often include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, and amputations. These injuries typically have long-term consequences, including loss of function, permanent disability, or lifelong medical needs. These cases demand more thorough evidence than standard personal injury claims because the stakes are higher. For this reason, San Antonio lawyers often involve expert witnesses for catastrophic injury cases.
What Is an Expert Witness?
An expert witness is a professional with specialized knowledge. This person can offer testimony to clarify complex aspects of a claim. Experts show up in court to educate the room, which means they must be credible, authoritative, and neutral. This sets an expert witness apart from a fact witness, which might include somebody who witnessed the events firsthand.
Expert witnesses in San Antonio strengthen a catastrophic injury case by adding credibility to claims made by the injury victim. They can also translate technical concepts into ones that a jury can understand. Ultimately, the witness supports the link between the defendant’s negligence and the injury, and they also help counter any arguments made by defense experts.
Types of Expert Witnesses in Catastrophic Injury Claims
Medical experts are among the most common expert witnesses used in catastrophic injury claims in San Antonio. Medical experts can explain the extent of current medical needs as well as what kinds of medical care may be necessary in the future. These witnesses may include trauma surgeons, neurologists, orthopedic specialists, and rehabilitation specialists. Economic experts may also sit on the witness stand. They can explain lost earning capacity and future care costs. They can also create projections that demonstrate how the victim’s life may shake out economically in the wake of a catastrophic injury.
Other types of expert witnesses include:
- Accident reconstructionists, who can recreate motor vehicle or workplace incidents
- Psychological experts, who can speak to the impact of PTSD, depression, and cognitive issues
- Vocational rehabilitation experts, who can assess the injured person’s ability to return to work
Expert witnesses must meet expert qualifications established by the Texas Rules of Evidence Rule 702. Additionally, these witnesses must be reliable and provide relevant testimony to the case. Unqualified witnesses or biased experts may be excluded from the trial. For this reason, it is important to work with an attorney who understands expert vetting and evidence admissibility.
Choosing the Right Legal Team to Coordinate Expert Testimony for Catastrophic Injury Claims in San Antonio
An experienced lawyer can identify and retain a strong expert witness for you. Together, you can discuss pre-trial expert depositions and trial testimony coordination. A firm’s network of respected professionals can make or break a high-stakes injury case. It is important to act quickly to find a witness who can help your case.
Catastrophic injuries are complex, but your legal process can be simpler. Contact our lawyers today for a free consultation about expert witnesses in San Antonio catastrophic injury cases. Building a strong case is possible.
