As a result of an explosion while plugging the Wonder "C" Model widget into an electrical socket, Tina was left in a coma for nine years. When she regained consciousness, she wished to bring legal action against the manufacturer, ACME Widget Co., for her injuries. She did not remember much about the events that surrounded the explosion. While doing some research for her case she discovered that there had been an electrical storm on the evening she was using the Wonder "C" when it exploded. Which of the following legal principles would the manufacturer of the widget not be entitled to use?
A) doctrine of laches
B) res ipsa loquitur
C) contributory negligence
D) act of God
E) volenti non fit injuria

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Res ipsa loquitur is a legal principle that allows a plaintiff to prove negligence on the part of a defendant through the very nature of the accident, without specific evidence of how the defendant's behavior caused the harm. It wouldn't be a defense for the manufacturer but rather a principle that could be used against them, suggesting that the accident's occurrence implies negligence. The other options (A, C, D, E) are defenses that could potentially be used by the manufacturer.

As a Result of an Explosion While Plugging the Wonder