What is Tort Law?

Tort law deals with civil wrongdoings that cause harm or injury to others. The term “tort” originates from Latin, meaning harm or wrong. Personal injury lawsuits typically involve tort claims.

What Does Negligence Mean in Tort Law?

Negligence refers to failing to act with the level of care a reasonable person would exercise under similar circumstances. This carelessness can lead to harm or injury. For example, a driver running a red light and causing an accident demonstrates negligence by not following traffic rules.

What Are Common Types of Personal Injury Cases?

Personal injury claims often involve:

• Vehicle accidents

• Products liability

• Slip-and-fall incidents

• Medical malpractice

• Dangerous drugs or defective medical devices

• Wrongful death

• Airplane and boating accidents

Work-related injuries typically fall under Georgia’s workers’ compensation laws rather than standard personal injury claims.

What Compensation is Available in a Personal Injury Case?

If you are injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may seek compensation, often referred to as “damages,” including:

• Medical expenses

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Lost future earning capacity

• Costs for future medical treatment

Damages are intended to financially restore you to your pre-accident condition as much as possible, even though money cannot reverse all effects of an injury.