Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is one of the most devastating experiences you can go through. Wrongful death claims aim to hold responsible parties accountable and provide some measure of financial relief for grieving families. However, proving negligence and causation in these cases can be complicated. Defendants might dispute whether their actions truly led to a death or argue that the health issues of the deceased were the primary cause. 

In such scenarios, it’s often the testimony of a wrongful death expert witness that can tip the scales in favor of a fair outcome. Expert witnesses offer specialized knowledge that can clarify the circumstances surrounding a wrongful death. By breaking down scientific or technical details into understandable terms, these professionals help jurors see the chain of events that led to the incident. In many instances, expert testimony can ensure fair compensation for the grieving family.

Let our knowledgeable Grand Haven personal injury attorney discuss exactly why expert witnesses are so critical in wrongful death cases and what you should know if you decide to pursue legal action after losing a loved one.

Understanding the Role of Expert Witnesses

An expert witness is someone with specialized knowledge, education, training, or experience in a particular field that goes beyond what an ordinary person would know. In a wrongful death lawsuit, the court allows such an individual to offer opinions or interpretations of evidence to help clarify technical matters. 

Wrongful death cases can arise from various incidents, including car accidents, workplace injuries, defective products, medical malpractice, or criminal acts, among others. As a result, the types of experts required vary widely. Here are some commonly used experts:

• • Medical Experts

Doctors, surgeons, or other healthcare professionals who review medical records, autopsy reports, and the history of the victim to determine the cause of death and any lapses in care.

• • Accident Reconstruction Specialists

Engineers or other technical experts who use physics, computer modeling, and on-site evidence to reconstruct vehicle crashes, industrial accidents, or other fatal incidents.

• • Forensic Analysts

Scientists who examine evidence such as toxicology reports, physical traces, or DNA to piece together how an event might have transpired and who bears responsibility.

Regardless of their specific field, expert witnesses serve a single purpose: to help a judge or jury understand complicated issues. Their ability to present technical findings in a clear, straightforward manner is why Grand Haven personal injury attorneys often rely on them so heavily in wrongful death proceedings.

How Expert Witnesses Strengthen Wrongful Death Cases

The primary goal in any wrongful death claim is to prove that someone’s negligence or misconduct caused the death in question. In medical malpractice cases, for instance, a wrongful death expert witness, often a physician with relevant experience, explains what a competent professional in the same specialty would have done in similar circumstances. If the treatment of the defendant fell short of that standard, the expert can clearly articulate how that deviation contributed to the death of the patient.

Furthermore, expert witnesses help connect the actions of the defendant—or lack thereof—to the injuries of the victim. For example, if you claim that a defective car part caused a crash, an engineer can examine the part, run tests, and explain how the failure of the component made the collision unavoidable. In medical cases, a physician might discuss why a surgical error led to fatal complications. Without expert testimony, it can be challenging to prove that a specific act of negligence was the definitive cause of death.

The Legal Process for Integrating Expert Testimony

While expert witnesses can greatly strengthen a wrongful death case, their testimony isn’t automatically guaranteed. In Grand Haven, the Michigan Rules of Evidence govern how a wrongful death expert witness testimony is evaluated and whether it’s admissible. Rule 702 sets the standard for who qualifies as an expert and what their testimony must contain. It states that an individual can testify if:

• • The knowledge of the expert can help the jury understand the evidence or decide an important fact.
  • The testimony is based on sufficient facts or data.
  • The testimony is the result of reliable principles and methods.
  • The expert applied those principles and methods reliably to the facts of the case.

Moreover, Rule 703 requires that the facts or data the expert relies on must be in evidence or later admitted in evidence unless the court decides otherwise. Essentially, it guarantees that the opinion of the expert witness comes from legitimate, verifiable sources rather than mere speculation. Once admissible, lawyers work closely with expert witnesses to ensure the testimony aligns with the broader legal strategy, which often involves:

• • Reviewing and refining expert reports for clarity and thoroughness.
  • Holding mock examinations to prepare the expert for depositions and trials.
  • Organizing exhibits to visually communicate technical concepts.
  • Coordinating with other witnesses to ensure a cohesive narrative.

A local Grand Haven personal injury attorney can present a compelling story that highlights how the negligence of the defendant or wrongful act caused a tragic, preventable death. The combination of expert analyses, witness statements, and physical evidence often creates a robust case that can withstand scrutiny from the defense.

Need Legal Help? Shafer Swartz, PLC At Your Service

If you and your family have suffered the unimaginable loss of a loved one due to someone else’s actions, Shafer Swartz PLC is here to help you understand your rights, guide you through the legal proceedings, and fight for the compensation you deserve. We’re ready to collaborate with a wrongful death expert witness who can offer insight into your case to strengthen your claim.

With extensive experience, our competent Grand Haven personal injury attorneys know how to prepare and present evidence effectively, giving you the best possible chance at holding the responsible parties accountable. Let us help you seek justice and fair compensation for your loss. Contact us today at (231) 722-2444 or here to schedule a consultation.