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.
A toxic tort is a tort that involves exposure to harmful pharmaceuticals, chemicals, solvents, substances, gases, mold, or other materials, causing personal injuries and requiring medical treatment. Examples of toxic tort claims include exposure to asbestos-containing products, pesticides, lead-based paint, tobacco, and hazardous waste materials (such as those used by dry cleaners).
Toxic torts are often associated with personal injury claims, as many toxic torts can cause personal injuries. These claims and the related law are sometimes broadly referred to as toxic tort law.
In Hawaii, toxic tort law addresses legal claims arising from exposure to harmful substances that result in injury or illness. These claims are a subset of tort law, which deals with civil wrongs causing harm to individuals, separate from contractual disputes. Toxic tort claims in Hawaii can involve exposure to a variety of hazardous materials, including asbestos, pesticides, lead-based paint, and other toxic chemicals. Plaintiffs in toxic tort cases may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from their exposure. In some cases, they may also seek injunctive relief to prevent further harm. Hawaii's statutes and case law govern the specifics of toxic tort claims, including the standards for proving causation, the types of damages that are recoverable, and the time limits for filing a claim, known as the statute of limitations. An attorney specializing in personal injury or environmental law would be able to provide specific guidance on toxic tort claims in Hawaii.