Although every motor vehicle collision is unique, accident victims often sustain the same kinds of impact injuries, which are typically multisystem. According to World Wide Wounds, for example, common auto wreck injuries include:
- Fractured bones;
- Dislocated joints;
- Deep lacerations; and
- Pulmonary contusions.
The costs associated with treating such injuries ultimately depend on their severity. Fortunately, accident victims can hold the liable party financially accountable for any damages they incur; however, they must file a successful claim in order to recover any kind of settlement.
Calculating and then proving the costs of treating a broken bone may be fairly straightforward, but when it comes to more complex or severe injuries, claimants typically need a little help. In these scenarios, insurance adjusters might require testimony from a medical expert witness.
A medical expert witness is a healthcare provider who has considerable experience treating or managing the kinds of the injuries that the claimant sustained. The victim’s treating physician might serve as an expert witness, or the insurance adjuster might request testimony from another specialist in the same field.
If you were hurt in a motor vehicle collision but are unsure how to build a strong claim or get in touch with a reputable medical expert witness, turn to Ballard Law, PLLC. William E. Ballard will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit. Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free consultation with an injury attorney in Jackson.
When Do Car Accident Claims Require Testimony from a Medical Expert Witness?
In general, a car accident claim will benefit from the testimony of a medical expert witness if it involves complicated, debilitating, long-term, or paralyzing injuries. This includes both physical wounds and psychological damage.
For example, individuals who develop post-traumatic stress disorder following a wreck should consult with a mental health expert to confirm their prognosis and calculate all potential costs of living with the condition. Likewise, those who sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI) should obtain testimony from a neurologist when building their claim. As PennyGeeks explains, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists can also provide insight regarding the extent of a TBI.
Cases involving damage to the spinal cord often call for testimony from a medical expert witness, as well. Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) can result in temporary or permanent paralysis and are one of most expensive kinds of injuries to treat and manage. According to the Mayo Clinic, car accidents are the leading cause of SCIs in this country.
If you sustained a TBI or SCI in a motor vehicle collision, a Jackson personal injury lawyer can consult with medical expert witnesses on your behalf. Depending on the circumstances of your case, such testimony could ultimately help you recover compensation for medical expenses, home care, lost income and benefits, loss of earning capacity, vocational retraining, and emotional distress.
Contact Ballard Law, PLLC today to determine if you have a valid claim against the party responsible for the incident that caused your injuries. Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free consultation. Our Car Accident Attorney is ready to speak with you. You can learn more about auto wreck claims in Mississippi by visiting the USAttorneys website.
