A joint tortfeasor refers to two or more individuals or entities who contribute to causing harm or injury to another party through negligent, intentional, or wrongful acts. Joint tortfeasors are typically held jointly and severally liable for the damages caused by their combined actions.
For example, in a car accident involving two drivers who were both at fault, the drivers may be considered joint tortfeasors. The injured party can seek full compensation from either or both of them, depending on the circumstances.
Joint tortfeasors play a key role in tort law, ensuring that victims receive adequate compensation for harm caused by multiple parties.
Joint tortfeasors are important because they address situations where multiple parties contribute to harm, ensuring that victims are not left uncompensated due to the inability of one party to pay. The principle of joint and several liability allows plaintiffs to recover the full amount of damages from any responsible party.
For defendants, being classified as a joint tortfeasor emphasizes the need to assess and manage risks associated with shared liability. It also highlights the importance of fairness in apportioning responsibility among multiple wrongdoers.
Joint tortfeasor rules balance the interests of plaintiffs and defendants in complex tort cases.
