What are joint tortfeasors?

Joint tortfeasors are defined as two or more parties who share liability for a single injury or loss. This legal concept is significant in tort law because it helps to assign responsibility among those whose actions contributed to the harm experienced by a plaintiff. When multiple parties are found to be at fault, they can be held jointly and severally liable, meaning that each can be responsible for the full extent of damages, allowing for the injured party to pursue compensation from any of the responsible parties.

Understanding this concept is critical for adjusters and legal professionals as it impacts how claims are evaluated and settled. For instance, if an accident involves multiple drivers whose negligence contributed to the outcome, the injured party may file claims against all involved, seeking to recover their damages.

The other options present concepts that do not align with the definition of joint tortfeasors. Collaborating legally or on claims doesn't relate to liability for harm, and witnesses do not have a direct role in causing the injury. Thus, the correct definition of joint tortfeasors focuses specifically on the shared culpability of multiple parties in causing a loss.