Mass Torts vs. Class Actions: What’s the Difference?

Mass torts and class actions are both types of group lawsuits — but they work differently. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right path for your claim.

Key Differences

• Mass torts: Individual cases, individual outcomes
• Class actions: One case, shared outcome for all

Mass torts offer more personalized compensation but require more legal support. Talk to an attorney to see which is right for you.

What Is a Mass Tort Case?

A mass tort case involves many people who were harmed by the same defective drug, product, or device. Unlike class actions, each person has an individual claim, but all the cases are grouped together to make the process more efficient.

Examples

• Defective medical devices
• Dangerous prescription drugs
• Contaminated water or chemicals

Why Join a Mass Tort?

You keep your own lawyer and case, but benefit from shared resources and expert witnesses. These cases often result in significant settlements.

Dangerous Prescription Drug Lawsuits

Prescription drugs can cause serious side effects, especially when they’re not properly tested or labeled. You may have a claim if a drug harmed you or a loved one.

Common Cases

• Drugs that were later recalled
• Failure to warn of known risks
• Undisclosed side effects

Drug manufacturers can be held responsible for failing to protect patients. A mass tort attorney can review your medical history and help you file a claim.

How to Prove a Product Caused Your Injury

To win a product liability claim, you need to show that a defect caused your injury. This often requires strong evidence and expert support.

What You’ll Need

• Medical records
• Product documentation
• Photos of the product and injuries
• Witness statements
• Expert testimony

A lawyer can help gather this evidence and build a solid case. The stronger the connection between the product and your injury, the better your chances of recovery.

How Long Do You Have to File a Mass Tort Claim?

Each mass tort case has a deadline, known as the statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to compensation.

Time Limits

Most states allow 1 to 3 years from the date of injury or discovery. Some deadlines are shorter for claims involving government-funded healthcare.

A lawyer can tell you the exact deadline based on your case. Don’t delay — time is critical in mass tort claims.