Mindmap of Strict Liability and Other Issues WithinLineal Torts

September 6, 2007

Torts I

Prof. Eric E. Johnson, University of North Dakota School ofLaw

strict liability

i. Generally

1. Underspecial circumstances, liability may be imposed without a showing of negligenceor other form of culpability

ii. Elements

1. Absoluteresponsibility for safety

a. Trespassinganimals

b. Wildanimals on property, to licensees and invitees

c. Domesticanimals with known, uncommon, dangerous propensities

d. Ultrahazardous/ abnormally dangerous activities

i. Factors

1. Degreeof danger

a. Riskof serious harm

b. Inabilityto render safe

2. Uncommonnessof activity in area

ii. Examples

1. Blasting

2. Oildrilling

3. Fumigation

4. Cropdusting

e. Defectiveproducts

i. Defendantmust be a "commercial supplier" of the product at issue

1. Manufacturers,wholesalers, and retailers are commercial suppliers

2. Notcasual sellers

2. Actualcausation

a. Generallythe same as for negligence, see above

3. Proximatecausation

a. Generallythe same as for negligence, see above

4. Damages

a. Generallythe same as for negligence, see above

other issues

i. Standardof proof

1. Preponderanceof evidence

a. Foreach element of cause of action or affirmative defense

ii. Remedies

1. Damages

a. Compensatory

i. Special

ii. General

b. Nominal

c. Punitive