What defines strict products liability?

Strict products liability is defined by the principle that sellers can be held liable for selling products that are found to be dangerously defective, regardless of whether the seller acted negligently. This concept is rooted in the idea that consumers should be protected from harm caused by defective products, placing the responsibility squarely on those who design, manufacture, and sell these goods.

This means that even if a seller exercised all possible care in the manufacturing and distribution process, they can still be held liable if a defect in the product leads to injury or damage. The focus is on the product itself and its defects, not on the conduct of the seller. This legal framework aims to encourage higher safety standards in manufacturing and ensure that victims have a clear avenue for recourse when harmed by defective products.

The other options do not correctly capture the essence of strict products liability. For instance, liability based on proven negligence is typical of general tort law but does not apply under strict liability. Assumption of risk may be a defense in some tort cases, but it does not negate a seller's liability in strict products liability. Lastly, misuse of a product can complicate liability issues, but it does not inherently absolve sellers from responsibility in cases involving dangerously defective products.