VOCATIONAL EXPERT:
Richard H. Andersen, M.S., C.V.E., C.R.C., C.D.M.S., of VECTOR, Inc.
Joyce Pickersgill of Formuzis, Pickersgill & Hunt, Inc., (714) 542-8853, served as the economist.
CASE BACKGROUND:
Plaintiff, a 33 year old male Tattoo Artist and Editorial Writer, was riding a motorcycle when a semi-truck pulled in front of him. He slid and was pinned under the truck, losing consciousness and suffering injuries to his face, left leg, and back. The plaintiff’s injuries resulted in continuing chronic, constant left leg and jaw pain, requiring weekly consumption of narcotic pain medication. In addition, Plaintiff continued to experience sleep interruptions and mild cognitive limitations, primarily associated with short-term memory deficits.
FOCUS ISSUE:
While interviewing the plaintiff, Andersen realized Plaintiff was an individual who thoroughly enjoyed his work as a Tattoo Artist. He had built a successful military and law enforcement clientele, and was known in the community for his unique style. In addition, he relayed a passion for his editorial writing, which provided him “artistic freedom” and an outlet for his “creativity.” Unfortunately, his pain symptoms, physical restrictions, and cognitive limitations, as a result of subject incident, resulted in him being unable to perform either job adequately.
TESTIMONY:
During Andersen’s deposition and trial testimonies, he outlined his opinions on Plaintiff’s employment prospects and the economic impact, if any, on his future wages. Andersen determined the plaintiff needed vocational training to prepare himself for a sedentary job that would satisfy his pre-existing interests and meet his physical limitations. Andersen found the work of Computer Assisted Design (CAD) Drafters a viable vocational alternative.
To secure work as a CAD Drafter, Plaintiff would need to complete a two-year training program. Although completion of the program was possible, his disabilities and poor vocational test results put into question his ability to do so. Andersen testified Plaintiff would be relegated to sedentary, unskilled jobs, such as Cashier or Parking Lot Attendant, if he was not able to complete retraining. In addition, he would experience a 50% loss of earning capacity (see graph) as either a CAD Drafter or working in a sedentary, unskilled job.
ABOUT RICHARD ANDERSEN:
Richard Andersen holds national certifications as a Rehabilitation Counselor, Vocational Evaluator and Disability Management Specialist, with 37 years experience in vocational rehabilitation. He has also testified in Superior Court in 10 California counties. VECTOR, Inc. specializes in vocational rehabilitation counseling, disability research and forensic rehabilitation services, including vocational expert testimony on personal injury, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and harassment matters. The firm, founded in 1975, serves both plaintiff and defense attorneys, providing the link between the physician and the economist to precisely determine damages.
