A complete defense to negligence if plaintiff's own negligence contributed to their injuries. Under pure contributory negligence, even 1% plaintiff fault bars all recovery. Only a few jurisdictions still use this harsh rule.
Related terms
Comparative Negligence — A system that apportions fault between plaintiff and defendant. Plaintiff's recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault.…
Assumption of Risk — A defense when plaintiff voluntarily encounters a known risk. Express assumption (contractual waiver) and implied assumption (conduct showing…
Last Clear Chance — Plaintiff who was contributorily negligent can still recover if defendant had last clear chance to avoid harm and…
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