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 Rhode Island, a tort is recognized as a civil wrong that can result in liability for damages. Toxic torts, a subset of tort law, deal with injuries caused by exposure to hazardous substances. Rhode Island law allows individuals who have been harmed by such substances to seek compensation through the courts. This can include exposure to asbestos, lead-based paint, chemicals, and other toxic materials. Victims can file personal injury lawsuits against manufacturers, distributors, or other parties responsible for their exposure. The state statutes and case law in Rhode Island govern the specifics of how these claims are handled, including the burden of proof, causation, and the types of damages that can be recovered. In some cases, Rhode Island may also allow for injunctive relief to prevent further harm. It's important for individuals pursuing toxic tort claims to consult with an attorney who is experienced in this area of law to navigate the complexities of these cases and to ensure that their rights are fully protected.