What legal doctrine prevents recovery of damages if a person recognizes inherent dangers?

The doctrine of assumption of risk is a legal principle that holds that if a person is aware of a particular danger that is inherent to an activity and voluntarily engages in that activity, they may be barred from recovering damages for any resulting injuries. This concept is rooted in the idea that individuals should take responsibility for their choices and the risks associated with those choices.

When a person assumes the risk, they acknowledge that they understand and accept the potential dangers involved. For instance, if someone attends a sporting event where physical contact may occur, they understand the inherent risks of injury associated with that activity. If an injury happens, they cannot seek damages because they assumed those risks when they chose to participate.

In contrast, strict liability focuses on the liability of individuals or companies regardless of fault or negligence, negligence law relates to breaches of duty causing harm, and contributory negligence involves situations where a person's own lack of caution contributes to their injury. These concepts do not specifically address the idea that individuals can be barred from recovery because they knowingly accepted the risks involved in an activity.