Causation Flashcards
What is causation?
Connection between misconduct and damage.
Does an intentional act by a victim necessarily break the chain of causation?
No.
What is the difference between establishing causation and limiting causation?
Establishing causation is factual causation, and is determined using the “but for” test. Limiting causation is legal causation and talks about remoteness (foreseeability, probability, scope of the rule, and directness).
What are the problems with the “but for” test and determining factual causation?
- May be more than one cause.
- Provides only for all-or-nothing.
- Considers all consequences equally.
What is the requirement for causation in France?
That it be certain and direct.
Is the scope of the rule theory applied in France?
No.
What theory is applied to causation in France?
Adequacy theory – must be foreseeable.
What is the doctrine of efficient causation?
Look for most proximate cause.
What country uses the doctrine of efficient causation as a limiting mechanism?
France.
What are the two steps in causation in Germany?
- Establishing liability.
2. Determining the extent of the liability.
What theories does Germany use with regard to causation?
Adequacy theory, scope of the rule theory, and policy considerations.
How is causation considered in England?
The “but for” test on a “balance of probabilities.”
What was the test for causation in England under Re Polemis?
Foreseeabiltiy of any damage.
How was Re Polemis tightened in Wagon Mound I?
Scope of foreseeability relevant – remoteness.
What case seemingly contradicts the scope of foreseeability set out in Wagon Mound I?
Hughes v Lord Advocate (manhole case).