There are formal rules about every exhibit you want to use in a personal injury trial, whether in Virginia, North Carolina, or any state in this country. All exhibits have to be identified and shown to the other side well in advance of trial, and then there are formal rules about how they’re shown to a jury. Knowing the rules of evidence is just one reason why it’s important to work with a personal injury lawyer if you have been injured in an accident caused by another party.

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, our law firm can help you get financial compensation for all your losses. At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we can help you assess your claim and guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 833-997-1774 for a free consultation.

What Types of Exhibits Are Allowed in a Personal Injury Lawsuit?

Exhibits in personal injury lawsuits generally fall into several categories. The most common types include:

  • Photographs: Photographs of the accident scene, the injuries sustained, or damage to property are powerful tools in visualizing the events and effects of the accident. They can also include images showing the victim’s condition after the accident, helping to demonstrate the severity of injuries.
  • Medical records: Medical records are a central exhibit in personal injury cases. They detail the extent of the injuries, the treatments administered, and any future medical needs. These records help establish the link between the injury and the accident.
  • Expert testimony and reports: Expert witnesses may provide reports or testimony regarding the nature of the injuries, the cause of the accident, or the long-term impact on the victim’s health. This can include statements from doctors, psychologists, or vocational experts, particularly when the injury results in permanent disability or loss of earning capacity.
  • Police reports: Police reports are often admitted as exhibits when they document details about the accident, the involved parties, and any citations or violations issued at the scene. They can also include witness statements and the officer’s assessment of fault.

Can Physical Evidence Be Presented as an Exhibit?

Yes, physical evidence can be presented as exhibits in court. Common examples include:

  • Injured clothing or personal items: These may be introduced to show how the accident affected the individual’s body, such as torn clothing or bloodstains. In the case of a car accident, for example, parts of the vehicle that were damaged in the crash might be presented as physical evidence.
  • Crash data or devices: In vehicle accident cases, exhibits might include the car’s event data recorder (EDR) that logs data about the crash, such as speed or braking behavior. Similarly, black box data from planes, if applicable, can be used as evidence in certain personal injury cases.

Are Video Recordings Admissible as Exhibits?

Yes, video recordings are often used in personal injury lawsuits. These can include:

  • Surveillance footage: Videos from security cameras, traffic cameras, or store surveillance systems can show the accident happening, or they may be used to demonstrate unsafe conditions leading to the injury, such as a wet floor in a store.
  • Dashcam footage: If either party in a vehicle accident has a dashcam recording of the crash, it can be used as an exhibit in court. This is often compelling evidence because it can provide an objective, real-time view of the accident.
  • Medical or rehabilitation videos: Videos showing the plaintiff’s recovery, physical therapy, or daily challenges may also be presented to help demonstrate the impact of the injury on their life.

Can Documents Be Introduced as Exhibits?

Yes, documents are a significant category of exhibits in personal injury cases. Some examples include:

  • Insurance documents: These documents can include insurance policies, claim forms, and correspondence between the parties, which help determine who is liable and the extent of available coverage.
  • Medical bills and receipts: These are used to demonstrate the costs incurred as a result of the injury. They may include hospital bills, prescription costs, physical therapy receipts, and any other financial burdens directly related to medical treatment.
  • Witness statements: Statements from people who witnessed the accident or the aftermath can be presented in the form of written affidavits or oral testimony. These can help support the plaintiff’s version of events.
  • Employment records: If the injury results in lost wages, employment records that show the plaintiff’s previous work history, pay stubs, and employment contracts can be used to calculate lost wages and reduced earning capacity.

Are Demonstrative Exhibits Allowed in Court?

Demonstrative exhibits are tools used to visually explain or illustrate testimony during the trial. While they don’t serve as direct evidence, they can help juries understand complex issues. Examples of demonstrative exhibits include:

  • Charts and graphs: These can be used to illustrate medical treatments, show the progression of injuries, or display financial losses like medical costs and lost wages.
  • 3D models or simulations: In some complex cases, 3D models or computer-generated animations are used to recreate the accident scene or the plaintiff’s medical condition, helping the jury visualize what happened or the impact of the injury.
  • Diagrams or illustrations: Simple sketches or diagrams might be used to illustrate the accident scene, the positioning of vehicles, or the anatomy of the injury.

Can Your Firm Take My Case?

Selecting the right personal injury lawyer is crucial to the success of your case. At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, our motto is “All we do is injury law.” We only represent accident victims, never the at-fault party. Our personal injury attorneys are dedicated to obtaining the best possible outcome for our clients, as evidenced by the more than $100 million in settlements and verdicts we have obtained.

Call us at 833-997-1774 to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.