In personal injury lawsuits, facts alone aren’t always enough to sway a jury or secure a favorable settlement. That’s where expert witnesses come in. These professionals provide specialized insights that can tip the scales of justice, especially in complex cases. At SHK Law, we have seen firsthand how expert testimony can mean the difference between a lowball settlement and a life-changing award.

What is an Expert Witness?

An expert witness is a professional with specialized knowledge or experience in a specific field relevant to a case. Their role is to provide clarity, offer expert opinions, and connect the dots for judges and juries who may not understand the technical or scientific aspects of the case.

Common Types of Expert Witnesses in Personal Injury Cases

1. Medical Experts: Explain the nature, extent, and potential long-term impact of injuries.
2. Accident Reconstruction Specialists: Recreate incidents to demonstrate fault or causation.
3. Economic Experts: Calculate the financial impact of an injury, including lost wages and future expenses.

For example, in a case involving a traumatic brain injury (TBI), a neurologist might explain how the injury affects cognitive function and quality of life, strengthening the claim for long-term damages.

How Expert Witnesses Shape Injury Lawsuits

Expert witnesses don’t just add value to a case—they build its foundation. Here’s how:

Proving Negligence

A safety engineer can testify about how a poorly designed product or workplace hazard violated safety regulations, establishing liability. For example, the National Safety Council estimates that workplace injuries cost the U.S. economy $171 billion annually, often due to preventable negligence. An expert can quantify and explain these failings in a courtroom.

Establishing Damages

Medical experts can provide insight into ongoing treatment needs or future surgeries, creating a strong case for higher damages. According to a study by the Insurance Research Council, injured claimants who receive expert-supported legal representation settle for 3.5 times more on average than those who don’t.

Countering Defense Arguments

Defense teams often argue that injuries are pre-existing or exaggerated. A skilled expert can counter these claims with data and professional assessments that leave little room for doubt.

Case Outcomes Backed by Expert Testimony

Research highlights the important role expert witnesses play in influencing case outcomes. According to a report by the American Bar Association, personal injury cases that include expert testimony are more likely to achieve favorable jury verdicts, often leading to significantly higher damage awards when the testimony is persuasive and well-presented.

Real Results at SHK Law

In one of the most significant slip-and-fall verdicts in the United States, our team fought tirelessly to uncover the truth behind a client’s devastating spinal injury caused by a fall at a McDonald’s. The defense initially denied liability, claimed there was no video footage due to unrelated construction, and even blamed our client for causing his own fall.

By partnering with expert witnesses, including a life care planner and medical professionals, we built an undeniable case. These experts provided compelling testimony that the fall exacerbated our client’s pre-existing spinal injuries, resulting in permanent damage and requiring a spinal cord stimulator to manage his pain.

The defense’s initial settlement offer of $300,000 was far from adequate. At trial, after years of litigation and expert-driven evidence, we achieved a groundbreaking jury verdict of $18,794,132.14, making it the number one slip-and-fall verdict in the U.S. in 2022.

This case demonstrates both the powerful impact of expert witnesses and SHK Law’s dedication to fighting for the truth and delivering results that truly matter to our clients.

FAQs About Expert Witnesses in California

How Are Expert Witnesses Chosen?

At SHK, we carefully select professionals whose expertise aligns with the specific needs of each case. For instance, in a slip-and-fall case, we might bring in a biomechanical expert to demonstrate how the accident caused specific injuries.

Can Expert Witnesses Be Cross-Examined?

Yes, and this is where experience matters. SHK prepares our experts rigorously to withstand cross-examination, ensuring their testimony remains credible and impactful.

How Much Does an Expert Witness Cost?

While costs vary, investing in the right expert often leads to significantly higher settlements or awards. This cost is typically recovered in the increased compensation the expert helps secure.

The Role of Expert Testimony in Injury Lawsuits

Insurance companies know the power of expert witnesses—and they fear it. That’s why they often attempt to discredit or exclude expert testimony. At SHK Law, we anticipate these tactics and work diligently to ensure our experts deliver testimony that holds up under scrutiny.

Studies show that jurors place a high value on expert witnesses, often seeing them as impartial authorities. According to a report by the National Center for State Courts, jurors are 85% more likely to favor a party with credible expert testimony, highlighting the critical role these professionals play in the courtroom.

Why SHK Law is Different

Most law firms rely on quick settlements, prioritizing volume over value. SHK Law takes a different approach. We see each case as an opportunity to fight for meaningful justice. By partnering with top-tier expert witnesses and leveraging our litigation expertise, we give our clients the best chance at success—whether through negotiation or in the courtroom.

Leverage is Key

Our trial-ready approach sends a clear message to insurance companies, prompting them to reconsider their tactics and often resulting in more substantial settlements. 

Contact SHK Law Today

Expert witnesses are a game-changer in personal injury cases. But they’re only as effective as the attorneys presenting them. At SHK Law, we combine cutting-edge legal strategies with industry-leading experts to deliver case results that matter.

If you’re facing a personal injury lawsuit, don’t settle for less. Contact SHK Law today or schedule a free case evaluation to learn how we can build the strongest possible case for you.