When we take on a head injury case, we must be prepared for a long and expensive battle that may require many expert witnesses. In traumatic brain injury cases, the most common experts and their roles are as follows:
Neurologist: A specialist on the brain and nervous system to discuss diagnosis and prognosis of traumatic brain injury.
Neurosurgeons: Neurosurgeons are often called upon in the Emergency Room to determine if surgery is needed to reduce pressure and bleeding in the brain. They can be very effective using demonstrative exhibits and animations to discuss with a jury what happens inside an injured brain and how the rest of the nervous system can be impacted.
Radiologist: To diagnose traumatic brain injury using film studies such as MRI and CT Scan.
Neuropsychologist: To offer diagnosis, prognosis, and a treatment plan often after conducting comprehensive testing to determine cognitive and emotional problems after a traumatic brain injury.
Vocational Rehabilitation Expert: To determine work-related limitations, restrictions, and accommodation after a traumatic brain injury.
Rehabilitation Medicine Expert: Often called upon to be the “quarterback” of all medical professionals involved in a traumatic brain injury case, the rehabilitation medicine expert (also known as a physiatrist) reviews the records and testimony of other medical providers and identifies what is needed to restore or improve quality of life.
Economist: To discuss the economic impact of a traumatic brain injury, including future medical expenses and lost earning capacity.
Biomechanical Engineer: In cases where the defense claims the mechanics of the accident could not have led to a traumatic brain injury (for example by claiming the forces were not that strong or a seatbelt and headrest adequately protected the victim), biomechanical engineers testify as to the forces on the brain and body to produce traumatic brain injury.
Learn more about the personal injury attorneys at the Emanuel Law Group.
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