Life Care Planning Expert Witnesses Discuss Earning Potential and Forecast Modeling for Injured Youth

Case Overview

A 15-year-old African American female was injured at school while operating a piece of machinery and as a result lost partial use of one eye. Suit has been brought against the teacher and school district for negligent supervision and failure to enforce rules and regulations necessary for student safety. The theory being that the teacher and school had a duty to protect and supervise specifically with automobiles and machinery. The plaintiff is demanding damages equal to the resultant loss of earning potential. She retained a life care planning expert and economist to assist with the earnings calculation.

Questions to the Psychology expert and their responses

Given certain factors, can you compute the specific earnings potential of this individual?

I would review school records and standardized testing to identify the aptitudes of the plaintiff pre-injury and examine differences in performance post-injury. I would use medical records and/or speak to the medical expert to determine long-term impairments. I would interview the parents to determine the probability of post-secondary education. I would review the accommodation needs the plaintiff may require in school or for future work. Based on that model of identifying the aptitudes and rehabilitation needs, I would identify career options, access to employment, and the earning capacity associated with the plaintiff. I would then compare to pre-injury earning capacity.

What background do you have in forecast modeling? Elaborate.

I have extensive experience in forecast modeling and have reviewed numerous cases involving eye injury. I apply the RAPEL model.

Can you include factors specific to this individual in your models? For example: scholastic aptitude, family demographic, etc.

Yes, I can include factors specific to this individual in my models.

About the expert

This highly qualified vocational consultant has over 35 years professional experience conducting personal interviews and forensic evaluations to determine employability and earning capacity based on education and vocational history, aptitude testing, and record review. He is a member of numerous professional organizations in the vocational consulting space. He is a certified Rehabilitation Counselor, certified by the American Board of Vocational Experts. Currently, he is the owner of an independent vocational consulting practice where he has performed hundreds of earning capacity evaluations.