What is the main purpose of a tort claim?

The main purpose of a tort claim is essentially to facilitate legal compensation for damages incurred due to the wrongful actions of another party. Tort claims serve to provide a mechanism through which individuals can seek restitution when they have suffered harm—be it physical, emotional, or financial—due to another’s actions or negligence. This function is crucial because it not only addresses individual grievances but also serves as a deterrent against future misconduct, encouraging responsible behavior among individuals and entities.

While the concept of "protected immunities" for public entities is an important aspect of tort law—offering some defenses against claims—it does not constitute the primary purpose of tort claims overall. The mechanism is fundamentally about compensating the injured party, allowing them to recover losses and potentially restore their situation to what it was prior to the harm.

Other options such as accountability and property transfer exist in different legal contexts but are not inherent to the purpose of tort claims. The focus of tort law remains firmly on providing a pathway for legal compensation and remedy for damages sustained due to another’s wrongful conduct.