What doctrine holds a seller liable for injuries resulting from a defective product regardless of fault?

The correct answer is based on the principle of strict liability, which imposes liability on the seller or manufacturer of a product without the need to prove negligence or fault. This doctrine is particularly important in product liability cases, where it is sufficient to demonstrate that the product was defective and caused injury or damage.

Strict liability exists because certain products, by their nature, can pose risks to consumers, and it places the responsibility on manufacturers and sellers to ensure that their products are safe for use. The rationale is to protect consumers and promote safety by holding parties accountable for defects that occur in the production, design, or marketing of a product. It reflects a societal interest in safeguarding the well-being of individuals, regardless of the manufacturer’s intention or care in producing the product.

Other options, such as negligence, require proof that the seller failed to act reasonably in providing a safe product, which can complicate the case and absolve the seller if a reasonable level of care was taken. Duty of care pertains to the obligation to avoid causing harm to others, which is a foundational concept in negligence without directly addressing product defects. Express warranty refers to specific guarantees made by sellers regarding the quality or performance of a product and does not create liability in the same broad manner as strict liability