Mass torts are legal cases where many individuals come together to sue a company or organization for similar injuries or damages. These cases often arise from issues like defective products, environmental disasters, or harmful pharmaceuticals, where a large group of people is affected in a similar way. In a mass tort, each plaintiff maintains their own individual claim, but the cases are handled collectively to streamline the legal process. This approach can make it easier for victims to seek justice and compensation, as seen in cases involving asbestos exposure or toxic waste spills.