Question

In Tort, what is 'vicarious liability'?

• A. A person is generally liable for his own wrongful act
• B. A person is liable for the wrongful act done by other person
• C. A person is liable for the wrongful act in his absence
• D. None of the above

Hint:

Think of "vicarious" as "acting through another." The most common example is an employer being liable for a negligent driver (employee). This helps solidify the concept of liability for another's actions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the definition of the legal doctrine of 'vicarious liability' within the Law of Torts.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Vicarious liability is a legal principle where one person is held strictly liable for the torts committed by another. It is an exception to the general rule that a person is only liable for their own wrongful acts. This liability is not based on any fault of the person held liable, but on their relationship with the tortfeasor.
Key examples include:
- Master-Servant: An employer is liable for torts committed by their employee in the course of employment.
- Principal-Agent: A principal is liable for the torts of their agent performed within the scope of authority.
- Partners: Partners are liable for each other's torts committed in the firm's business.
Option (B) accurately describes this concept.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Vicarious liability is the legal responsibility of one person for the wrongful acts of another.