A tort is a violation of another's natural right. As was discussed earlier, most torts are committed unintentionally, as in the case of negligence that causes injury or damage. Examples of negligent torts would be the failure to keep a sidewalk in repair, negligence in the operation of a motor vehicle, malpractice by a physician, improper and unsafe maintenance of premises.
When a person has been injured or has suffered loss due to the negligent tort of another, the law recognizes the right of the injured party to redress. One definition of redress is the right of receiving compensation or money damages.
Liability insurance concerns itself with negligent torts. As will be shown in other articles, this form of insurance is designed to protect a firm or an individual from claims that may be brought against him or her for negligent torts.
It is, therefore, important for the insurance practitioner to have an understanding of the nature and extent of liability between persons, the restrictions and time limits on suits, and the liability of a person for the actions of others. Some of the more important statutes and practices on these matters appear below under several headings.
It should be stressed, however, that these are presented in barest outline. Therefore, the reader is urged to check further into the laws of his or her state on any point made.