What role do expert witnesses play in product liability cases?

In product liability cases, expert witnesses play a crucial role by providing specialized knowledge and testimony that can help establish the nature of the defect, the cause of the harm, and the responsibility of the manufacturer or seller. Their insights are often vital for the court's understanding of complex technical issues.

Roles of Expert Witnesses in Product Liability Cases

1. Technical Expertise: Expert witnesses possess specialized knowledge in fields relevant to the product in question, such as engineering, design, safety standards, or medical science. They can explain technical aspects that may be beyond the understanding of the average juror or judge.

2. Evaluating the Product: Experts can examine the defective product and assess whether it meets safety standards or if there were design flaws. Their evaluations provide critical evidence regarding the product's functionality and safety.

3. Establishing Causation: Expert witnesses can help establish a causal link between the defect and the harm suffered by the consumer. They may use scientific methods or industry standards to demonstrate how the defect led to the injury.

4. Providing Credibility: Their professional background and qualifications lend credibility to the case. The opinions of reputable experts can significantly influence the court's perception and decision-making.

5. Preparing Reports and Testimony: Experts prepare detailed reports outlining their findings, which can be used as evidence during the trial. They may also provide live testimony, explaining their conclusions to the court and answering questions from both parties.

Example

In a case involving a defective tire that caused a vehicle accident, an expert witness, such as a mechanical engineer, might be called to:

• Analyze the tire's design and manufacturing process.
• Determine if the tire was flawed and explain how this contributed to the accident.
• Testify about industry standards for tire safety and whether the manufacturer adhered to them.

By doing so, the expert can help establish the manufacturer's liability and support the consumer's claim for damages.