TBI cases require expert witnesses to explain medical issues, document injuries, and calculate damages. Building the right expert team is essential for successful brain injury litigation.
Medical Experts
Neurologist
A board-certified neurologist provides testimony on:
- TBI diagnosis and classification
- Mechanism of brain injury
- Causation linking the accident to brain damage
- Prognosis and expected recovery
- Treatment needs
Neuropsychologist
A neuropsychologist administers cognitive testing and testifies about:
- Test results documenting deficits
- Interpretation of cognitive impairments
- Functional impact on daily life and work
- Comparison to pre-injury functioning
Neuroradiologist
For cases with imaging findings, a neuroradiologist interprets:
- CT and MRI scans
- Advanced imaging (DTI, fMRI)
- Correlation between imaging and symptoms
Treating Physicians
Doctors who actually treated the victim provide factual testimony about care, progress, and observations.
Damages Experts
Life Care Planner
Projects all future medical, rehabilitation, and care needs with associated costs.
Economist
Calculates:
- Lost earning capacity
- Present value of future damages
- Economic projections
Vocational Rehabilitation Expert
Assesses:
- Remaining work capacity
- Job options within limitations
- Earning potential with TBI
Other Experts
- Accident reconstructionist – How the accident occurred
- Biomechanical engineer – Forces involved and injury mechanism
- Psychiatrist/psychologist – Mental health impacts
Expert Selection Criteria
- Credentials – Board certification, academic positions
- Experience – Specific TBI expertise
- Communication – Ability to explain complex concepts clearly
- Litigation experience – Effective in deposition and trial
- Credibility – Not viewed as a "hired gun"
Conclusion
TBI cases rise or fall on expert testimony. Selecting qualified, credible experts who can explain complex brain injury issues to juries is critical to successful outcomes.