Answer to Question 1
Engineers and constructors should know about the different clauses in engineering and construction contracts because the party who has a better understanding of the terms and conditions of their contract has an increased chance of prevailing in a court of law should issues arise related to the terms of the contract. Having the ability to interpret contract clauses allows someone to defend the position of their firm relative to the contract and it helps them determine which clauses should be included or avoided in contracts.
Answer to Question 2
Engineers and construction professionals need to understand tort liability and how they might be affected by it because it is the area of the law that addresses negligence, which is intentional or unintentional acts that result in an individual or individuals being injured or killed or property damaged or destroyed, as the result of an action or inaction of someone or a group of individuals. Engineers and construction professional should know what negligence is, be aware of unsafe working conditions at job sites, and take remedial action to eliminate dangerous situations.
