Understanding Intentional Torts: A Case of Mistaken Identity
Intentional Torts and their Consequences
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The Scenario: Matt, Jamal, and Sally
Imagine a scenario where Matt intends to throw a rock at Jamal and hit him in the head. Unfortunately, Jamal is standing directly next to Sally. As Matt throws the rock, he accidentally hits Sally in the head instead of Jamal.
The Legal Question
What type of tort did Matt commit against Sally?
The options for this question are:
- A negligent tort because Matt was careless in throwing the rock.
- A negligent tort because he only intended to harm Jamal.
- An accidental tort because he struck Sally by mistake.
- An intentional tort because Matt intended to throw the rock and physical injury resulted.
- Matt did not commit a tort against Sally because he only intended to strike Jamal with the rock.
The best answer choice is: An intentional tort because Matt intended to throw the rock and physical injury resulted.
Explanation: If Matt originally wanted to hit Jamal with a rock in the head but instead hit Sally who is standing directly next to Jamal, then he committed an intentional tort. This kind of tort can be transferred as the tortfeasor knew certainly that his plan would result in inevitable consequences.