In some car accident cases, the available evidence does not indicate the other driver’s fault conclusively. This is often the case of crashes that happen at night or in isolated areas of the road, with no eyewitnesses and traffic cameras. In these situations, a Watkinsville car accident lawyer may need to hire an accident reconstruction expert.
Their expert testimony is necessary to provide the undeniable link between the driver’s negligent actions and the outcome – the accident. While hiring a specialist means an extra cost to be deducted from the settlement, there would be likely no settlement without them. Here is why it may be necessary to have an accident reconstructionist onboard during your car accident claim.
Accident Reconstruction Experts Know How to Examine Cars
Accident reconstructionists specialize in various fields of science, such as mathematics, physics, and mechanics. They know how cars are built and how they get damaged in various types of collisions.
Thus, this specialist is the best-equipped person to perform a detailed investigation of the accident. Based on the findings, they can form an idea of:
- The angle of the collision
- The force of the impact
- The combined speeds of the cars at the moment of collision.
Accident Reconstructionists Know How to Create Visual Presentations of the Crash
The result of the accident reconstruction expert’s work is a written report accompanied by an animated 3D presentation of the circumstances of the crash. While the report will contain many technical data and details, the visual presentation is often more powerful for settling a claim.
A saying goes that a photo is worth 1,000 words. In this case, a video presentation is worth all the objections an insurance adjuster may raise against your claim for damages. They know very well that, if they refuse to settle, the same video presentation will be shown to the judge and jury during the car accident lawsuit.
The Lawyer Consults with the Expert to Put Together Strong Arguments
Everyone needs expert advice in certain cases, including a Watkinsville car accident lawyer. Whenever there are technical aspects related to the circumstances of the crash, the attorney will ask the accident reconstructionist for clarification.
In this way, the lawyer can introduce these aspects in their legal arguments supporting your claim for damages. Only clarity and point-by-point demonstrations can persuade an insurance adjuster that they cannot get away with a lowball offer or claim denial.
The Accident Reconstructionist Can Serve as an Expert Witness
In general, cases where an accident reconstruction expert is required are highly contentious. Thus, it is possible that the insurance company will refuse to settle even after watching the expert’s video presentation.
In this situation, the only legal option for recovery is to sue the at-fault driver. The insurance company is obliged to defend them in court – and they will definitely bring all the arguments used during the failed negotiations.
At this point, your attorney will enlist the accident reconstructionist as an expert witness. These professionals know how to explain their findings with clarity and in simple terms to the judge and jury.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire An Accident Reconstruction Expert?
Certified accident reconstructionists charge between $150 and $400 per hour, depending on their experience and qualifications. However, you do not have to pay the fee upfront. The reconstructionist will get paid, just like your lawyer, once the case settles out of the total compensatory amount.
Consult with an Experienced Watkinsville Car Accident Lawyer!
The lawyers at The Weinstein Firm are not afraid to accept complex cases, which other attorneys may refuse. We know how to prove the other driver’s fault and secure the fair compensation you deserve.
If necessary, your Watkinsville car accident lawyer will hire an accident reconstruction expert or other expert witnesses needed to prove your case.
Do not wait too long after your accident. Call us today to schedule a free case review at 770-HELP-NOW!