If you have been involved in a car accident with injuries that were not your fault, you may be wondering about your legal options. In such cases, understanding the different types of torts is essential. A “tort” is a civil wrong that results in harm, and tort law governs such wrongs. This article will discuss the three main types of torts: intentional, unintentional, and strict liability. 

Intentional Torts 

Intentional torts refer to actions that are deliberately taken to cause harm or injury to another person. Examples of intentional torts include assault, battery, false imprisonment, trespassing, and defamation. In such cases, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant intended to cause harm or knew that harm was likely to occur. If proven, the plaintiff may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Unintentional Torts 

Unintentional torts, also known as negligence, occur when a person’s careless or reckless behavior results in harm to another person. Examples of unintentional torts include car accidents caused by distracted driving, medical malpractice, and slip-and-fall accidents. In such cases, the plaintiff must prove that the defendant had a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused the harm. If proven, the plaintiff may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. 

Strict Liability 

Strict liability torts differ from intentional and unintentional torts in that the defendant is liable regardless of whether they intended to cause harm or acted negligently. Strict liability torts typically arise in cases involving defective products or hazardous activities. In such cases, the plaintiff must prove that the product was defective, or the activity was inherently dangerous and that the defect or danger caused the harm. If proven, the plaintiff may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. 

At Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law, we have more than 100 years of combined experience handling all types of tort cases, including car accidents. Our attorneys are dedicated to helping our clients get the compensation they deserve. If you are in Roanoke, VA, and need legal representation, call us today at (540) 342-2000 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation.