Site navigation

Which rule did the House of Lords establish in Rylands v. Fletcher (1868)?

In Rylands v. Fletcher (1868) LR 3 HL 330, the House of Lords affirmed Blackburn J.'s rule for the escape of a dangerous accumulation and distinguished natural from…

Choose your answer

Which rule did the House of Lords establish in Rylands v. Fletcher (1868)?

Select one answer
Answer and explanation

Correct answer C

In Rylands v. Fletcher (1868) LR 3 HL 330, the House of Lords affirmed Blackburn J.'s rule for the escape of a dangerous accumulation and distinguished natural from non-natural use of land. The rule imposes strict liability subject to recognized limits, including the claimant's own default.

Option feedback

Option A

Absolute liability for hazardous enterprises is the distinct Indian rule discussed in M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (AIR 1987 SC 1086).

Option B

Res ipsa loquitur permits an inference of negligence from the circumstances of an accident.

Option C

The House of Lords held that an occupier who accumulated a dangerous thing through a non-natural use of land could be liable if it escaped and caused damage, even without negligence.

Option D

Strict liability is a correct description of the rule established in the case.

Practice for these exams

Related question papers

Related exam syllabi

Related questions in this topic