Types of Evidence
Evidence in a personal injury claim can be classified into two (2) types: direct evidence and circumstantial evidence. Direct evidence includes tangible evidence, such as medical records, photographs of the scene, and eyewitness testimony. Circumstantial evidence is evidence that indirectly supports the claim, such as the victim's behavior after the accident or the defendant's past behavior.The Importance of Evidence
Evidence is critical in a personal injury claim because it is used to establish fault, damages, and liability. Fault refers to the person responsible for causing the injury, while damages refer to the harm caused by the injury. Liability describes the legal responsibility of the party at fault for the damages caused. Evidence can help establish all of these factors and support the victim's claim.For instance, physical evidence, such as skid marks, spilled liquids, broken concrete, or vehicle damage, can be used to reconstruct the accident and determine who was at fault. Eyewitness testimony can also be used to establish fault, especially when there is no physical evidence.
Medical records and reports can be used to establish the extent of the victim's injuries and the damages caused by the accident. They can also be used to establish the victim's pain and suffering, loss of normal enjoyment of life, future medical, disfigurement, lost wages, and other damages.
The Role of Witnesses
Witnesses play a critical role in a personal injury claim. They can provide direct evidence of the accident, such as what they saw and heard at the scene. Witnesses can also provide circumstantial evidence, such as the victim's behavior after the accident or the defendant's past behavior.The credibility of witnesses is essential in a personal injury claim. Their testimony must be truthful, objective, and accurate.
Expert Witnesses
In some cases, expert witnesses may be required to provide testimony. These are individuals who have specialized knowledge and training in a particular field, such as medicine or engineering. Their testimony can be used to explain complex technical issues to the jury or judge.For example, in a slip and fall case, a engineering or snow and ice removal expert may be called to testify about the liability of certain Defendant(s) based upon the evidence established during the investigation and prosecution of the case.
Evidence is a critical aspect of a personal injury claim. If you or a loved one have been injured due to someone else's negligent actions, it is crucial to gather and preserve as much evidence as possible to support your claim. The experienced attorneys at Sherwood Law Group can help. Our team has a proven track record of successfully representing personal injury clients and securing the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you with your personal injury claim.
