Personal Injury Newsletters

Federal Tort Claims Act -- Intentional Torts Exception

The Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) applies to claims arising from the negligence of a federal government employee. The FTCA specifically bars claims that arise from an "intentional tort" committed by a federal government employee.

Federal Volunteer Protection Act -- Exceptions

The federal Volunteer Protection Act (VPA) grants immunity to a volunteer who causes harm to a person while the volunteer is performing services for a nonprofit organization or governmental entity. However, under some circumstances, a volunteer is not immune from liability for such harm.

Liability of Air Traffic Controllers

Air traffic controllers are responsible for the flow of air traffic in and around airports. The controllers must be licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The duties of the controllers are set forth in operations manuals that are prepared by the FAA. The controllers must transmit the information that is set forth in the manuals and must take all steps that are necessary for the safety of pilots and passengers.

Interference with a Premarital Relationship

Although there have been causes of action in the past for breach of a promise to marry, which causes of action were based on contract law, there has never been a cause of action in tort for alienation of affections with regard to an engaged person or for sexual intercourse with an engaged person.

Duty of a Correctional Facility to Prevent Suicide

Jails, prisons, and other types of correctional or detention facilities have a legal duty to ensure the safety of their inmates. This duty arises because the facility has actual physical custody of and control over its inmates. As part of this duty, the facility has a limited duty to prevent its inmates from committing suicide while in custody.