Which tort is typically strict liability?

• A. Battery
• B. Negligence
• C. Rylands v Fletcher
• D. Trespass

Answer: (C)

Strict liability in tort means you’re responsible for damage caused by something dangerous even if you were careful. The classic example is Rylands v Fletcher: the person who brings onto their land something likely to cause mischief if it escapes is liable for damage that escapes onto another’s property, regardless of fault. The key element is the escape of a dangerous thing from the owner’s land and the resulting damage, not negligence or intent. That’s why Rylands v Fletcher fits as the typical strict-liability tort.

By contrast, battery requires intentional contact, negligence requires a breach of duty, and trespass to land is usually about intentional invasion of another’s space. None of those turn on strict liability in the same fundamental way.