A tort is a wrongful act (other than a breach of a contract) that creates civil legal liability for money damages—and in some situations entitles the injured party to injunctive relief—an injunction or court order for the person or entity committing the wrongful act to stop a certain behavior or action. A person who commits a tort is known as a tortfeasor.
Torts are often associated with personal injury claims, as many torts can cause personal injuries. These claims and the related law are sometimes broadly referred to as tort law.
In Delaware, as in other states, a tort is considered a civil wrong that can result in the tortfeasor (the person who commits the tort) being held liable for damages. Tort law in Delaware covers a wide range of wrongful acts, including but not limited to negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, defamation, and product liability. When a tort causes personal injury, the injured party may file a lawsuit seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Delaware law also allows for punitive damages in cases where the tortfeasor's conduct is found to be especially egregious. In some cases, the court may issue an injunction to prevent the tortfeasor from continuing the harmful behavior. Tort claims in Delaware are subject to statutes of limitations, which set deadlines for when a lawsuit must be filed. It's important for individuals in Delaware to consult with an attorney to understand the specific statutes and case law that apply to their situation.