PDI LUNCH TIME WEBINAR – Michael T. Prange, Ph.D., P.E. – Paragon Forensics – “Concussion Claims in Litigation: Applying Science to Questions of Causation”

Michael T. Prange, Ph.D., P.E., Senior Biomechanical Engineer at Paragon Forensics will present “Concussion Claims in Litigation: Applying Science to Questions of Causation”.

Concussions are frequently alleged injuries in personal injury and product liability litigation, yet establishing whether a specific event caused a concussion is often far more complex than the diagnosis itself. This presentation examines the scientific and evidentiary issues surrounding concussion claims, with an emphasis on the relationship between accident mechanics, head kinematics, biomechanical loading, medical findings, and reported symptoms.

Designed for litigators handling motor vehicle collisions, premises liability, sports, and product liability cases, this session will discuss how biomechanical principles can assist in evaluating whether an incident produced loading conditions consistent with the claimed injury. Attendees will gain practical insight into the strengths and limitations of biomechanical analysis, the role of objective and subjective medical evidence, common misconceptions regarding concussion causation, and strategies for effectively examining treating physicians, medical experts, and biomechanical engineers during deposition and trial. Through case examples and current scientific literature, participants will develop a framework for critically assessing head injury causation and distinguishing scientifically supported opinions from unsupported assumptions.