What was a key factor preventing a surge in civil litigation after the 9/11 terrorist attacks?

The existence of the 9/11 victim compensation fund played a crucial role in preventing a surge in civil litigation following the terrorist attacks. This fund was established by the federal government to provide financial relief to the victims and families affected by the tragic events of September 11, 2001. By offering a structured, no-fault compensation process, the fund incentivized victims to forgo traditional lawsuits in exchange for financial restitution without the burdens of protracted and uncertain litigation.

The establishment of this fund not only eased the financial burdens on victims but also aimed to avoid the potential for a multitude of lawsuits that could overwhelm the courts and hinder the recovery process for those affected. The fund was designed to promote a more expedited and compassionate response to the tragedy, addressing the needs of victims while mitigating the possibility of extensive legal battles that could strain resources and divert attention from recovery efforts.

This mechanism effectively redirected the focus from civil litigation toward compensation through the established fund, which was a key factor in limiting the volume of lawsuits that followed the attacks.