The Role of Expert Witnesses in Utah Car Accident Claims
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Utah, expert witnesses can play a critical role in proving your case. Their testimony can make the difference between winning fair compensation or having your claim dismissed. Expert witnesses provide specialized knowledge that helps juries, judges, and insurance companies understand the nature of your injuries, the cause of the accident, and the financial impact of your losses.
When Do You Need an Expert Witness in Your Car Accident Case?
Expert Witnesses in Trials
If your case proceeds to a jury or bench trial, you must have an expert witness testify about the cause and severity of your injuries. Without expert testimony, your case can be dismissed under Utah Rule of Civil Procedure 26.
- Timing to Designate Experts: Under Utah law, expert witnesses must be designated 14 days after fact discovery closes. If you wait too long to retain an expert, you risk missing this crucial deadline.
- Exceptions for Blatantly Obvious Injuries: In rare cases involving obvious injuries (e.g., broken limbs), courts may allow exceptions. However, this is extremely uncommon.
Experts in Prelitigation Cases
In larger cases, experts are often “front-loaded” during prelitigation. Before filing a lawsuit, your attorney may use expert testimony to strengthen the demand package sent to the at-fault insurance company. This helps demonstrate the full value of your claim.
Types of Expert Witnesses in Utah Car Accident Cases
Retained Experts vs. Non-Retained Experts
- Retained Experts: These are paid professionals hired specifically to provide expert opinions.
- Non-Retained Experts: Typically your treating medical providers, such as doctors or physical therapists, who offer testimony based on their firsthand treatment of your injuries.
Common Expert Witnesses in Utah Car Accident Cases
Chiropractic Physicians
- Testify on causation, diagnosis, prognosis, and the necessity of medical treatment.
- Limited to musculoskeletal injuries unless specially trained.
Doctors of Physical Therapy (PTs)
- Can testify to billing reasonableness, diagnosis, and causation.
Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
- Diagnose injuries, prescribe treatments, and testify about medical billing and prognosis.
Orthopedic Surgeons
- Testify on surgical needs, causation, and medical expenses.
Neurosurgeons
- Provide specialized insights into nervous system injuries.
Physician’s Assistants (PAs)
- Offer opinions on diagnosis, prognosis, and medical billing.
Accident Reconstructionists
- Recreate the accident scene to explain how the crash occurred.
Economists
- Calculate future medical costs, lost earnings, and reduce these figures to present-day value.
Life Care Planners
- Map out future medical needs and associated costs, such as home renovations or medical devices.
Vocational Rehabilitation Professionals
- Assess future income losses due to injury-related limitations.
How Many Expert Witnesses Are Needed?
The number of experts depends on the severity of your injuries. For minor injuries, one expert medical witness may be sufficient. For serious cases involving future lost earnings and lifelong medical care, you may need multiple experts like:
- Economists
- Life care planners
- Vocational rehabilitation specialists
The Cost of Hiring Expert Witnesses
Expert witnesses can be expensive, especially for complex cases. When choosing a lawyer, ensure they have the financial resources and experience to hire the best experts to prove your claim.
Why Hire Jake Gunter for Your Utah Car Accident Case?
With over 20 years of experience, Jake Gunter has the knowledge, financial backing, and proven success to secure top experts for your case. He ensures all expert witness deadlines are met and builds the strongest case possible for maximum compensation.
Call/Text Jake Gunter for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a Utah car accident, don’t leave your claim to chance. Call or text Jake Gunter today at (801) 373-6345 for a free consultation. Let his experience work for you!
FAQs About Expert Witnesses in Utah Car Accident Cases
- What is an expert witness in a car accident case?
An expert witness provides specialized testimony to explain medical, financial, or accident-related details. - Do I need an expert witness for my case?
Yes, especially for trials or complex injury claims. - How much do expert witnesses cost?
Costs vary depending on the expert’s field
and involvement. - Can my treating doctor be an expert witness?
Yes, treating doctors often serve as non-retained experts. - What happens if I miss the deadline for designating experts?
Your case may be dismissed.