Accident Reconstruction Experts: Their Role in Complicated Alberta Motor Vehicle Accident Claims
A thorough investigation is extremely important to car accident cases, especially if there are multiple vehicles involved. To determine fault in a motor vehicle accident, it is sometimes necessary to recreate what happened before and during the accident.
Accident reconstruction experts play a vital role in recreating the scenarios that may have caused the accident. This article will explore what accident reconstruction experts are, when they are needed, how to qualify them as experts in court in Alberta, how their evidence can strengthen your claim, and whether hiring an expert is worth it.
Our Calgary motor vehicle accident lawyers can assist you in finding these specialists if you have been hurt in a crash. We can also answer any legal questions you have about your collision and the claims process at a no-obligation, free initial consultation.
What Are Accident Reconstruction Experts?
Accident reconstruction experts are professionals who analyze the details of motor vehicle accidents that help determine how and why they occurred. They use physics, engineering, and specialized software to recreate the events leading up to, during, and after a collision. The experts examine physical evidence such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions, witness statements, as well as data from event data recorders EDR’s. Their findings can provide valuable insights into factors like vehicle speed, driver behavior, and the sequence of events, helping to establish fault and liability in complicated accident claims.
When is an Accident Reconstruction Expert Needed?
Typically, accident reconstruction experts are needed when the cause of a car accident is disputed or unclear. This includes severe or fatal accidents, accidents involving multiple vehicles, and incidents where witness statements conflict.
Their expertise is particularly valuable in cases involving complex road conditions, mechanical failures, or allegations of reckless driving. Alberta insurance companies and legal teams often rely on these experts to provide objective, scientific analysis that can clarify cause of the accident. In cases where fault is contested, the findings and testimony of the experts can significantly impact the outcome of a claim.
Qualifying Experts in Alberta Courts
The qualifications of an accident reconstruction expert is critical to that expert’s testimony being accepted by a court. Courts require experts have relevant education, training, and experience in accident reconstruction. These specialists are often engineers or former forensic investigators. Membership in professional organizations such as the Canadian Association of Technical Accident Investigators and Reconstructionists (CATAIR), whether they have published articles in the area, or taught others in the field can be relevant.
In addition, experts must demonstrate their ability to apply scientific principles accurately and consistently. Their reports and testimony regarding the motor vehicle accident should be clear, well-documented, and based on sound methodology.
How Reconstruction Evidence Can Strengthen Your Claim Against Insurers
Reconstruction evidence can be a powerful tool in strengthening your claim. By providing a detailed and scientific analysis of the accident, reconstruction experts can help establish fault and liability. This analysis can also support your account of the extent of your injuries and how they occurred.
This evidence can form an effective defence to insurer arguments that may attempt to minimize or deny your claim. Unfortunately, insurance companies may ignore relevant data and witness information in their rush to resolve claims quickly. It is also possible that insurers may hire their own accident reconstruction specialist.
In Alberta, contributory negligence can reduce compensation. For example, if a court determines you were 50% responsible for the car accident, the value of your claim will be reduced by 50%. An accident reconstructionist may also help in cases where an insurer argues the accident was partly caused by you. The experts prepare a detailed report outlining their opinion. Their reports are easily understood by the lawyers involved, mediators (people who help injured people and insurers negotiate settlements) and judges.
Is Hiring an Expert Worth It?
Hiring an accident reconstruction expert can be a significant investment, but it is often worth it in complicated motor vehicle accident claims.
The cost of hiring an expert varies, but their expertise can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we pay for costs up front. We will provide all your legal services, including retaining other expert witnesses (like doctors or accountants) under our client contingency-fee agreement. You will never have to pay us unless we secure compensation for you. While most cases are resolved through a negotiated settlement, we are prepared to take insurance companies to trial when their offers to settle are unreasonable.
In Alberta, where the legal and insurance landscape is complex, having a qualified expert on your side can provide a strategic advantage. Their analysis can help you build a strong case, negotiate better settlements, and increase the likelihood of a favourable verdict in court.
Do You Need an Alberta Car Accident Reconstruction Expert? We Can Help
Connecting you with a qualified accident reconstruction expert is only one of the ways our Alberta car accident lawyers can support you through the claims process. We can also explain your insurance coverage in detail, keep track of deadlines for submitting evidence, fill out documents, and communicate with insurance companies in writing or by phone.
We are familiar with the strategies insurers commonly use and can advise how to effectively build your case in response. If you or someone you know was hurt in a motor vehicle accident, we encourage you to contact us for a free initial consultation. Our team can answer your questions and give legal advice tailored to your specific situation.
Our law firm serves clients across Alberta. Call our 24-hour toll-free line at 1-888-494-7191 to make an appointment today. Our office in downtown Calgary also welcomes walk-ins. We look forward to hearing from you and remember, there is no cost to you unless we win.
