Georgia § 51-1-13 - Cause of action for physical injury; intention considered in assessing damages.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-1-13 — Cause of action for physical injury; intention considered in assessing damages., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 51-1-13. Cause of action for physical injury; intention considered in assessing damages.
A physical injury done to another shall give a right of action to the injured party, whatever may be the intention of the person causing the injury, unless he is justified under some rule of law. However, intention shall be considered in the assessment of damages. (Orig. Code 1863, § 2910; Code 1868, § 2917; Code 1873, § 2968; Code 1882, § 2968; Civil Code 1895, § 3826; Civil Code 1910, § 4422; Code 1933, § 105-601.) Cross references. - Settlement offers and agreement for personal injury, bodily injury, and death from motor vehicle, § 9-11-67.1 . Law reviews. - For comment on Tucker v. Howard L. Carmichael & Sons, 208 Ga. 201 , 65 S.E.2d 909 (1951), holding child may maintain action for prenatal injury caused by negligence of another, see 14 Ga. B. J. 249 (1951). For comment on Wright v. Wright, 85 Ga. App. 721 , 70 S.E.2d 152 (1952), see 15 Ga. B. J. 83 (1952). For comment on Plantation Pipe Line Co. v. Hornbuckle, 212 Ga. 504 , 93 S.E.2d 727 (1956), holding that if a child born after an injury occurring at any period in its prenatal life can prove a tortious effect it will be allowed the right to recover, see 19 Ga. B. J. 87 (1956). For comment on Hornbuckle v. Plantation Pipe Line Co., 212 Ga. 504 , 93 S.E.2d 727 (1956), recognizing child's right of action for prenatal injuries suffered prior to viability, see 8 Mercer L. Rev. 377 (1957). For comment on Mims v. Boland, 110 Ga. App. 477 , 138 S.E.2d 902 (1964), see 2 Ga. St. B. J. 133 (1965). For comment, "'Am I My Brother's Keeper?': Reforming Criminal Hazing Laws Based on Assumption of Care," see 63 Emory L.J. 925 (2014).
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 51-1-13
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-1-13 cover?
Section 51-1-13 ("Cause of action for physical injury; intention considered in assessing damages.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Georgia § 51-1-13?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-1-13" (Georgia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 51-1-13 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Georgia.