Jacques captured a large rattlesnake while on a camping trip and brought it home to his apartment in the city. He kept the snake in a glass aquarium which he had covered with a wire screen. One day, after feeding the snake, he accidentally failed to fasten down the screen cover, and the snake escaped from the aquarium. The snake managed to enter the adjoining apartment by way of an open balcony door. The occupant of the adjoining apartment was bitten and seriously injured when she accidentally stepped on the snake.
Historically, the courts have imposed strict liability for loss on persons that keep dangerous things on their property. The rattlesnake would probably be classed in such a way by the court.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Historically, courts have indeed imposed strict liability on owners for damages or injuries caused by inherently dangerous animals or things they keep. A rattlesnake, being a venomous and dangerous animal, would likely be classified as such, making the owner strictly liable for injuries it causes.

Jacques Captured a Large Rattlesnake While on a Camping Trip