Mass tort is a legal term that refers to a type of lawsuit in which many people, who have been injured or otherwise harmed by a dangerous or defective product or environmental disaster, come together to seek compensation from the responsible parties. These cases are typically brought against large corporations or government entities and can involve hundreds or even thousands of plaintiffs.
There are several types of mass tort cases that are commonly seen in the United States. Some of the most common include:
- Pharmaceutical Mass Torts: These cases involve injuries or harm caused by dangerous or defective drugs, such as the recent cases involving opioids and blood thinners.
- Environmental Mass Torts: These cases involve injuries or harm caused by large-scale environmental disasters, such as oil spills or chemical leaks.
- Product Liability Mass Torts: These cases involve injuries or harm caused by dangerous or defective products, such as those involving defective medical devices or faulty car parts.
- Asbestos Mass Torts: These cases involve injuries or harm caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and other industries before its dangers were fully understood.
- Medical Device Mass Torts: These cases involve injuries or harm caused by defective medical devices, such as hip replacements and transvaginal mesh.
- Toxins Mass Torts: These cases involve injuries or harm caused by exposure to toxic substances, such as lead and pesticides.
In each of these cases, the plaintiffs bring their claims together in a single lawsuit, rather than pursuing individual lawsuits. This allows for more efficient handling of the case and can result in higher settlements or verdicts for the plaintiffs.
It’s important to note that these cases can be complex and require the expertise of experienced attorneys who understand the legal complexities surrounding mass torts. It’s important for victims to seek out legal representation to help them navigate the process and achieve the best possible outcome.
