Under tort law, which of the following is often considered a defense against negligence claims?

Contributory negligence is a recognized defense in tort law that can significantly impact the outcome of negligence claims. It refers to a situation where the plaintiff, through their own negligent behavior, contributes to the harm they suffered. If it can be established that the plaintiff was partly responsible for their injuries, their recovery may be reduced proportionately based on the percentage of fault attributed to them. This principle acknowledges that the plaintiff also had a role in the circumstances leading to their injury, thereby limiting the liability of the defendant.

In contrast, strict liability involves holding a party responsible for damages without proving negligence or fault. This applies in certain situations, such as those involving abnormally dangerous activities, where the defendant can be liable even if they took all reasonable precautions. Vicarious liability refers to the responsibility of an employer or principal for the actions of an employee or agent, typically arising in the context of employment relationships. Competence is not a recognized defense but rather speaks to the ability of a party to perform certain tasks and is not directly related to negligence claims. Therefore, contributory negligence stands out as the primary defense mechanism within the context of negligence law.