What is abnormally dangerous activity?

Abnormally dangerous activity refers to a legal doctrine where certain high-risk activities can result in strict liability for harm caused, regardless of fault. This means that if someone engages in an abnormally dangerous activity and harm results from it, they can be held liable for that harm even if they took all possible precautions and were not negligent.

Legal Doctrine

Abnormally dangerous activity is based on the legal principle of strict liability, which holds individuals accountable for the consequences of their actions regardless of fault. This doctrine recognizes that some activities are so inherently risky that anyone engaging in them assumes the responsibility for any resulting harm.

High-Risk Activities

Examples of activities that may be considered abnormally dangerous include storing and transporting hazardous materials, blasting operations, and keeping wild animals. These activities have a high potential for causing harm to others, making them subject to strict liability.

Impact on Liability

When abnormally dangerous activities result in harm, those responsible can be held strictly liable for the damages. This means that the injured party does not need to prove negligence or intent to hold the person engaging in the activity accountable for the harm caused.

In conclusion, abnormally dangerous activities are those with a high risk of harm to others, and individuals engaged in such activities may be held strictly liable for any resulting harm under the legal doctrine of abnormally dangerous activity.