Meet Steven S. Paul – Your Trusted Vehicle Expert Witness for RV, Auto & Truck Cases
If you’re an attorney or claims professional facing a case involving mechanical failure, warranty disputes, or valuation issues—having a qualified, experienced vehicle expert witness is critical. I’m Steven S. Paul, founder of TDT Vehicle Expert Witness Services, and I provide expert inspections, reports, and courtroom testimony for legal matters involving automobiles, commercial trucks, and recreational vehicles across the United States.
Professional Background
With more than 30 years of hands-on experience, I’ve built a practice rooted in mechanical expertise and forensic accuracy. My career began in the military as a Heavy-Duty Vehicle Technician and evolved into fleet maintenance management and technical consulting. Today, I provide independent, court-defensible inspections and litigation support on a national scale.
Credentials and Certifications
I hold several advanced certifications that distinguish my services:
- ASE Master Certified Technician – Automotive & Medium/Heavy-Duty Truck
- NRVIA Level II Certified RV Inspector – National Recreational Vehicle Inspectors Association
- Certified Vehicle Appraiser – Providing valuations in line with USPAP standards
- Court-Qualified Expert Witness – State and federal courts across multiple jurisdictions
These credentials support my work as a vehicle expert witness for cases involving everything from luxury cars and diesel trucks to Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels.
What I Do
Over the course of my career, I have conducted more than 5,000 professional vehicle inspections. These inspections support a wide range of case types, including:
- Warranty Disputes
- Failure to Repair Claims (Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act)
- Dealer Misrepresentation or Odometer Fraud
- Lemon Law Litigation
- DOT Compliance Issues in Commercial Vehicles
- RV System Failures & Defects
- Diminished Value and Total Loss Appraisals
Each report is clear, detailed, and defensible—built on evidence, not opinion.
Vehicle Expert Witness Services for RV Litigation
Recreational vehicles are complex machines with dual systems: vehicle chassis and living quarters. As an NRVIA Level II Certified RV expert witness, I provide thorough inspections of:
- Electrical Systems (Chassis and Coach)
- HVAC, Heating, and Cooling
- Propane, Plumbing, and Water Systems
- Slide-Outs, Generators, and Converters
- Structural and Frame Integrity
Many RV warranty claims fail due to vague language, poor repair attempts, or failure to meet coverage requirements. I help attorneys understand whether the failure was due to a manufacturing defect, maintenance issue, or system failure—and whether warranty obligations were met.
Notable Case Example
In one recent case, I evaluated a 2022 Class C RV with repeated electrical failures. My inspection found that the converter was overcharging the battery system, causing acid leaks and appliance damage. Despite the manufacturer’s attempt to deny warranty coverage, my findings—supported by scan data and technical bulletins—revealed a defect. The case settled favorably after submission of my expert report.
Automobile and Commercial Truck Expert Witness Services
In addition to RV cases, I serve as an automobile expert witness and commercial truck expert witness. These cases often involve:
- Brake and Drivetrain Failures
- Undisclosed Accident or Frame Damage
- Air System or Lighting Violations in Trucks
- Used Car Dealer Fraud
- Diminished Value Disputes After Repairs
I use diagnostic scan tools, technical service bulletins, OEM repair guidelines, and FMCSA/TMC standards to evaluate both light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles accurately.
Why Attorneys Choose Me
Attorneys nationwide rely on my services because I bring:
- Objective Analysis – I do not advocate for either side, I speak to the evidence.
- Clarity in Reports – Written clearly for judges, juries, and mediators.
- Courtroom Experience – I’ve been qualified and accepted in court as a testifying expert.
- Responsiveness – I meet deadlines, answer case questions quickly, and provide availability for depositions or live testimony.
My findings are backed by real data, scan results, photos, and industry-recognized standards. I break down complex mechanical or electrical failures into clear, logical conclusions.
National Reach – Based in St. Louis
While I’m based in the St. Louis metropolitan area, I serve as a vehicle expert witness nationwide. I travel regularly for inspections and provide remote document review and consultation services as needed.
Turnaround for most expert reports is 7–10 business days. Expedited services are available for time-sensitive matters.
If you need a seasoned, credible, and technically qualified vehicle expert witness to support your case, I’m ready to help. Submit your inquiry directly through my website or reach out for a free consultation.
Closing Thoughts
With the complexity of modern vehicles—and the legal exposure tied to their failure or misrepresentation—you need an expert who doesn’t just understand engines and electrical systems, but one who can clearly explain them in a court of law. That’s where I come in.
When you need facts—not guesswork—turn to a proven vehicle expert witness who delivers clarity, credibility, and results.