Accident Reconstruction in Injury Cases
In personal injury cases for different types of accidents, proving liability is often complex. As such, it may require the testimony of an expert witness, such as an accident reconstructionist. Collision reconstruction involves uncovering what events led to the crash and establishing the individual or entity responsible for the incident. This entails an in-depth investigation into the circumstances and facts surrounding the incident to prove how it unfolded. An accident reconstruction expert typically possesses expertise and a formal background in physics, engineering, forensics, and mathematics.
Collision Reconstruction Process
When a crash reconstruction specialist is hired, they will start independently investigating the matter. This often includes visiting the scene of the incident. They will gather evidence, review witness statements, and go over the police report. This may also include an examination of the vehicles and any other objects involved. This involves assessing photos of tire tracks, skid marks, and other relevant evidence. They will also inspect roadway conditions, including road surface defects, overgrown foliage that may obstruct a driver’s view, and positioning of traffic signals and roadway signage.
Once the collision reconstruction specialist has collected the necessary evidence, they will start analyzing and interpreting the collection of data. They will create hypotheses and models in written reports that detail the points of rest, movements, speeds, and impact points of the vehicles involved. The crash reconstructionist may also generate 3D simulations to help a jury and judge visualize the sequence of events leading to the incident. The right California car accident lawyer will have the resources to work with an accident reconstruction expert to properly establish liability in your case.
Why is Crash Reconstruction Important in a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
The goal of collision reconstruction in a personal injury case is to reenact the scene of a crash. It also addresses unanswered questions about how the incident occurred. An accident reconstructionist achieves this by creating a visual presentation to elaborate on the factors involved in the incident. This is often in the form of a 3D animation or written report. Expert testimony from a crash reconstruction specialist may unveil the following:
- The degree and angle of impact to the involved vehicles which may uncover details on speed and direction
- What actions or inactions were taken by the drivers before and during the collision
- Providing clarity on conflicting witness accounts of the crash through insight into the incident and expert opinion
- Whether either of the motorists were not providing the road their full attention at the time of the crash, like talking or texting on a cell phone
A written report or a 3D simulation of a motor vehicle collision by an accident reconstructionist is one of the most important types of evidence in settlement negotiations or litigation. If the case is taken to court, a California personal injury lawyer will often use a crash reconstruction specialist to serve as an expert witness and provide testimony before a jury and judge.
When Would a Personal Injury Case Require a Crash Reconstruction Expert?
Testimony from a collision reconstructionist may not be necessary in personal injury cases involving minor injuries and minimal property damage from a crash. The greater the severity of injuries and the value of economic and non-economic damage, the greater the importance of enlisting the services of a crash reconstruction specialist. It may be necessary to work with an accident reconstructionist in a personal injury case for the following reasons:
- When faulty vehicle equipment causes a crash
- There were no individuals who witnessed the car wreck
- There is insufficient evidence establishing liability for the crash
- The individual or entity that caused the incident disputes liability
- There are conflicting accounts of the incident provided by witnesses
Various situations may require testimony from expert witnesses, such as a crash reconstruction specialist, in a personal injury case. An experienced injury lawyer will assess the specifics of the matter to determine if expert witness testimony is necessary to support the case. At our personal injury law firm, we offer free consultations. It costs nothing to learn about your rights and options moving forward. Watch the video below for additional information about the services we offer.
Is It Expensive to Hire an Accident Reconstruction Specialist for an Injury Case?
The expenses associated with hiring a collision reconstructionist can vary based on the specifics of the matter. An attorney will handle these costs in a personal injury case through contingency. Under a contingent fee arrangement, the client does not have to make out-of-pocket or upfront payments for legal representation. Attorney’s fees will only be due if a favorable case outcome is achieved.
Call a Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento, CA
Expert witness testimony, such as an accident reconstruction specialist, may be decisive in the outcome of a claim for damages. Learn more by contacting our Sacramento car accident lawyers from AutoAccident.com for free, friendly advice on your potential case at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. We serve clients in Sacramento County and throughout California.
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