Deliktiõigus

Deliktiõigus is a branch of civil law that deals with torts, which are civil wrongs that cause harm or loss to another person. It provides a legal framework for compensating victims for damages they have suffered due to the wrongful acts of others. Unlike criminal law, which focuses on punishing offenders for societal harm, deliktiõigus aims to make the injured party whole again.

The core principle of deliktiõigus is that a person who causes harm to another through their fault is obligated to compensate the victim for the resulting damages. This fault can manifest in various forms, including negligence, intent, or strict liability in certain cases. Negligence occurs when a person fails to exercise the reasonable care expected of them, leading to harm. Intentional torts involve deliberate acts intended to cause harm. Strict liability holds individuals responsible for harm regardless of fault, often in situations involving inherently dangerous activities or defective products.

Damages awarded in deliktiõigus cases can include compensation for both material losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, and non-material losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. The burden of proof typically lies with the injured party, who must demonstrate that the defendant's wrongful act caused their damages. The principles of deliktiõigus are crucial for maintaining social order and ensuring that individuals are held accountable for the harm they inflict upon others in their private dealings.