What are "strict liability torts" characterized by?

Strict liability torts are characterized by the imposition of liability without the need for the injured party to prove negligence or intent to harm on the part of the defendant. This means that in cases involving strict liability, the focus is on the nature of the action or the product at issue rather than the defendant's state of mind or behavior. For example, if a person is injured by a defective product, the manufacturer may be held liable for injuries caused by that product regardless of whether they took reasonable care to ensure safety or intended to cause harm.

This legal principle is prevalent in areas like product liability, where it allows consumers to seek damages for injuries caused by inherently dangerous activities or defective products. The rationale behind strict liability is to encourage safety in manufacturing and to ensure that the burden of loss is placed on those who engage in risky behaviors or create products that could cause harm, rather than on the injured party.