Assessment of Damages for Personal Injury and Death

The book "Assessment of Damages for Personal Injury and Death" by Harold Luntz is a comprehensive and authoritative text in the field of tort law, specifically focusing on the assessment of damages for personal injuries and fatalities. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Tort Law Reforms: The book provides extensive commentary on the major tort law reforms in Australia, offering insights into how these reforms impact the assessment of damages.
2. General Principles of Tort Law: It covers the fundamental principles of tort law, including the calculation of future economic loss, which is crucial for determining compensation in personal injury cases.
3. Arithmetical and Actuarial Tables: The book includes arithmetical and actuarial tables to assist in the calculation of future economic loss, making it a valuable resource for practitioners.

Plot Summary

The book does not have a narrative plot but rather serves as a reference guide for legal professionals. It is structured to provide comprehensive commentary on the general principles of tort law, focusing on the assessment of damages for personal injuries and fatalities. The text is designed to assist in preparing cases and negotiating settlements out of court, making it a practical tool for legal practitioners.

Critical Reception

The book has received positive reviews for its authoritative and comprehensive coverage of the subject matter. Here are some key points from the critical reception:

1. Authoritative Text: The book is recognized as a leading authority in the assessment of damages, as evidenced by its frequent citations in High Court cases such as Griffiths v Kerkemeyer, Sharman v Evans, Kars v Kars, and De Sales v Ingrilli.
2. Book Review: A book review by R. A. Hasson in the Canadian Bar Review praises the text for its thoroughness and utility in the field of personal injury law, highlighting its importance as a reference guide for legal professionals.

Editions and Publication Details

The book has been published in several editions:

• 5th Edition: The most recent edition, published in 2023, is available through LexisNexis and is considered the authoritative text in the field.
• Previous Editions: Earlier editions were published by Butterworths in 1983 and by LexisNexis in other years, indicating its long-standing relevance in the legal community.

Availability

The full text of the book is not publicly available, but it is widely referenced in legal literature and is considered essential reading for legal practitioners dealing with personal injury and death cases.

In summary, "Assessment of Damages for Personal Injury and Death" by Harold Luntz is a critical resource for legal professionals, offering comprehensive commentary on tort law reforms, general principles of tort law, and practical tools for calculating damages. Its authoritative status and frequent citations in high-profile cases underscore its importance in the field of personal injury law.