What is the role of an expert witness in insurance claims?

The role of an expert witness in insurance claims is to offer specialized knowledge or opinions in legal proceedings. This is crucial during disputes involving complex technical or industry-specific issues that require a deeper understanding beyond what a jury or judge may possess. Expert witnesses come into play to clarify uncertainties regarding the insurance claim, often providing evaluations based on their expertise, such as in fields like engineering, medicine, or fire investigation.

They help to establish facts around the claim, interpret data, or explain the standards of care typical in the insurance industry. Their input can influence the outcome of a case by lending credibility and insight, which are essential for making informed legal decisions. This function stands in contrast to other roles in the claims process, such as negotiation or inspection, which do not focus on imparting specialized academic or professional opinions in a court setting.