An Introduction to Tort Claims and Their Legal Implications

A tort claim is a legal action taken when an individual suffers harm due to another person’s wrongful act, whether intentional or through negligence. In civil law, tort claims aim to provide compensation for injuries or damages, rather than to punish the defendant. Common examples of torts include personal injury, defamation, trespassing, and product liability. To succeed in a tort claim, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant owed them a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused harm as a direct result. Tort claims are divided into categories like intentional torts (e.g., assault or fraud), negligent torts (e.g., car accidents), and strict liability torts (e.g., harmful product defects). The outcome of a tort claim can result in compensatory damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering, or even punitive damages to deter wrongful conduct. Understanding tort law is crucial for individuals seeking justice and compensation for damages caused by others.