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 Wyoming, as in other states, tort law governs civil wrongs that cause harm or loss to individuals, separate from contractual disputes. When a person or entity commits a tort, they may be held liable for damages incurred by the injured party. Torts can encompass a wide range of wrongful acts, including but not limited to negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, defamation, and trespass. Personal injury claims are a common type of tort where the injured party seeks compensation for injuries sustained due to another's wrongful act. Wyoming statutes and case law outline the specifics of tort claims, including the elements that must be proven, the types of damages that may be awarded, and any applicable limitations or defenses. For instance, Wyoming follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that a plaintiff's recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault, and if they are found to be 51% or more at fault, they cannot recover damages. Additionally, there are statutory limits on certain types of damages, such as non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases. An attorney specializing in tort law can provide specific guidance and representation to those seeking to file a tort claim or those defending against one in Wyoming.