May 20, 2026

One accident, one careless decision, or one defective product can change someone’s life in seconds, and that is where tort law becomes important. I have seen many people confused about who is legally responsible after an injury and what options actually exist once medical bills, lost income, and insurance companies become involved. Understanding the different types of torts matters because every claim follows different legal standards and proof requirements. From negligence claims after car accidents to intentional misconduct and product-related injuries, these cases shape how compensation is recovered. This blog explains tort liability, key legal concepts, and common tort law examples seen in personal injury cases. What is a Tort in Law? A tort is a civil wrong that causes harm to another person and creates legal liability. The word comes from the Latin tortum, meaning “twisted,” which reflects the idea that a wrong has been committed and must be corrected. A tort is not a crime, nor is it a breach of contract. The person who commits the tort is called the tortfeasor. The harmed person is the plaintiff. When a tort claim succeeds, courts usually award monetary compensation rather than punishment. The same act can be both a tort and a crime. A driver who intentionally runs someone off the road may face criminal charges and a civil tort claim at the same time. The criminal case addresses the harm to society. The tort case addresses the harm to the victim directly. Types of Torts in Law Every tort claim falls into one of three categories, and the category determines what the injured person must prove, how fault is measured, and what damages are available. 1. Intentional torts Intentional torts happen when someone acts on purpose and causes harm to another person. The person does not always need […]