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 Missouri, as in other states, a tort is considered a civil wrong that can result in liability for damages. The state's tort law allows individuals who have suffered harm due to another's wrongful act to seek compensation. This encompasses a wide range of wrongful acts, including but not limited to negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, defamation, and product liability. Personal injury claims are a common type of tort action in Missouri, where individuals seek damages for injuries caused by another party's negligence or intentional acts. Missouri law also recognizes the concept of comparative fault, which means that if a plaintiff is found to be partially at fault for their own injuries, their damages can be reduced proportionally. In some cases, Missouri law may also allow for injunctive relief, which is a court order requiring the tortfeasor to stop the harmful action. It is important for individuals seeking to file a tort claim in Missouri to consult with an attorney to understand the specific statutes and case law that may apply to their situation.