The danger-invites-rescue doctrine states that when someone is in danger, it is expected for others to attempt to rescue them. This means that if someone willingly puts themselves in danger, they cannot hold someone else responsible for trying to assist them. “Dangerous” refers to something that is not safe and could potentially cause harm. “Imminently dangerous” indicates that something is highly likely to cause harm immediately. “Inherently dangerous” means that something is always hazardous and requires special precautions to prevent harm.
The legal principle of the danger-invites-rescue doctrine asserts that individuals are inclined to rescue those in peril. Therefore, if someone attempts to rescue another who is in a hazardous situation and sustains injuries in the process, the individual who created the danger may be held accountable for the rescuer’s injuries. For instance, if a person is drowning in a pool and someone jumps in to save them but gets hurt, the pool owner may be liable for the rescuer’s injuries. Similarly, if a firefighter is injured while attempting to rescue someone from a burning building, the building owner may be held responsible for the firefighter’s injuries. These examples demonstrate the danger-invites-rescue doctrine, which maintains that individuals will naturally attempt to rescue those in danger, even if it endangers their own safety. The doctrine places responsibility on the person who caused the danger for any injuries that result from the rescue attempt.
The Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine is a legal principle that holds that if a person is injured while attempting to rescue someone else from a dangerous situation, the person who created the dangerous situation may be held liable for the injuries sustained by the rescuer.
The rationale behind this doctrine is to encourage individuals to come to the aid of others in need, even if it involves some level of risk. By holding those responsible for creating the danger accountable for the injuries suffered by rescuers, it promotes a sense of social responsibility.
To apply the Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine, the injured rescuer must establish that there was a dangerous situation created by someone else, the rescuer acted reasonably in attempting the rescue, and the rescuer’s injuries were a direct result of the dangerous situation.
No, the Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine does not apply to all situations. It typically applies to situations where the rescuer voluntarily puts themselves at risk to save someone else from a dangerous situation.
Yes, the Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine can be applied in cases involving professional rescuers, such as firefighters or police officers. However, the standard of care expected from professional rescuers may be higher than that of ordinary individuals.
No, the Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine cannot be used as a defence by the person who created the dangerous situation. It is a legal principle that holds them liable for the injuries suffered by the rescuer.
Yes, there are some exceptions to the Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine. For example, if the rescuer’s actions were reckless or if the rescuer had a pre-existing duty to act, the doctrine may not apply.
No, the Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine typically applies to situations involving human actors. It may not be applicable in cases involving non-human entities, such as animals or inanimate objects.
Yes, the Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine can be applied in cases involving natural disasters. If someone creates a dangerous situation during a natural disaster, they may be held liable for injuries suffered by rescuers.
The Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine is recognized in many jurisdictions, but the specific application and interpretation may vary. It is important to consult with a local attorney to understand how this doctrine applies in your jurisdiction.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.
To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.
- Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/danger-invites-rescue-doctrine/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/danger-invites-rescue-doctrine/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/danger-invites-rescue-doctrine/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):Danger-Invites-Rescue Doctrine. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/danger-invites-rescue-doctrine/
Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.
All author posts