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 Georgia, 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 Georgia covers a wide range of wrongful acts, excluding breaches of contract, which can lead to civil legal liability. This includes, but is not limited to, personal injury claims, which are a common type of tort where the injured party seeks compensation for injuries sustained due to the tortfeasor's actions. Georgia tort law allows for the recovery of compensatory damages, and in certain cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the tortfeasor and deter future misconduct. Additionally, in some instances, the courts may grant injunctive relief to prevent the tortfeasor from continuing the harmful behavior. Tort claims in Georgia are subject to specific statutes of limitations, which set the time frame within which a claim must be filed. It is important for individuals seeking to file a tort claim in Georgia to consult with an attorney to understand the nuances of the state's tort law and ensure their rights are protected.