Defenses to a Negligence Action

The video tutorial covers three legal doctrines: contributory negligence, comparative negligence, and assumption of risk. Contributory negligence prevents a plaintiff from recovering damages if they are even slightly negligent. Comparative negligence allows for damage recovery based on the degree of negligence. Assumption of risk blocks recovery if the plaintiff knowingly assumed the risk, with exceptions for those lacking mental capacity.

What is contributory negligence and how does it affect a plaintiff's ability to recover damages?

Explain the difference between contributory negligence and comparative negligence.

What is the assumption of risk doctrine and how can it prevent a plaintiff from recovering damages?

Provide an example of a situation where assumption of risk would apply.

How does the mental capacity of a person affect the assumption of risk defense?