A mass tort is a legal action involving numerous plaintiffs who have suffered similar harm from a single defendant or group of defendants. Common examples include lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies for dangerous drugs, manufacturers of defective products, or corporations responsible for environmental damage.
Mass torts differ from class actions in that each plaintiff’s claim is treated individually, allowing for variations in damages and settlements.
Mass torts are important because they provide a mechanism for individuals harmed by widespread negligence to seek justice and compensation collectively. By consolidating resources and evidence, mass torts make it easier to hold large corporations accountable for their actions.
For defendants, mass torts often result in significant financial liability, requiring strategic legal defenses and negotiation.
Mass torts highlight the power of collective legal action in addressing widespread harm.
When addressing mass torts:
Mass torts provide an effective way to address large-scale negligence and secure justice for multiple victims.