What term describes damages caused by a third party that intervene in a legal case?

• A. Intervening Cause
• B. Contributory Negligence
• C. Secondary Liability
• D. Vicarious Liability

Answer: (A)

The term "Intervening Cause" refers to a situation where a third party's actions lead to damages that impact an existing legal case. This concept is crucial in tort law because it addresses how an intervenor can affect causation and liability. When determining liability in a case, it is essential to evaluate whether the intervening party's actions were foreseeable and how they relate to the original negligent act. An intervening cause can either relieve the original party of liability or, conversely, compound the damages by introducing new factors into the legal issue.

The other options, while relevant in the context of liability and damages, do not specifically refer to the scenario of a third party intervening in a case. "Contributory Negligence" describes a situation where a plaintiff's own negligence contributes to their damages, affecting the outcome in their favor. "Secondary Liability" generally pertains to situations where one party is held liable for the actions of another due to a relationship between them. "Vicarious Liability" specifically involves the legal responsibility of one party for the negligent actions of another, typically within an employment context. Therefore, the most accurate term for damages caused by a third party intervening in a legal case is "Intervening Cause."