An act that occurs directly or exclusively without human intervention and results from the destructive forces of nature is legally referred to as Vis major.
Meaning of Vis Major:
Vis major is a Latin term that translates to “superior force.” In legal terminology, it refers to natural and irresistible forces that are beyond human control. It is often used as a defense in tort or contract law to exempt parties from liability when certain unforeseeable and unavoidable events prevent the fulfillment of obligations or cause damage.
Examples of Vis Major:
1. Earthquakes
2. Floods
3. Volcanic eruptions
4. Tsunamis
5. Lightning strikes
Legal Relevance:
In tort law, if damage or injury is caused solely by vis major, then the defendant may not be held liable since it was not a result of negligence or intent.
In contract law, vis major is often linked with the concept of force majeure clauses, which relieve parties from performing their contractual duties when extraordinary events or circumstances beyond their control occur.
Important Note:
For an event to qualify as vis major, it must be:
- Caused entirely by natural forces
- Unforeseeable
- Unpreventable with reasonable care
Conclusion:
When an act results exclusively from the uncontrollable forces of nature and occurs without any human intervention, it is termed as Vis major in legal parlance.
Therefore, the correct answer is: Vis major.