7. RvF Defences

• Defences of Rylands v Fletcher

  1. Volenti non fit injuria
  2. Contributory negligence
  3. Act of a stranger
  4. Act of God
• Rickards v Lothian [1913]


  The water escaping was caused by an unknown person. Act of stranger.
• Nichols v Marsland [1876]


  The escape was caused by the weather. Act of God.
• Act of stranger 


  Where the escape was caused by a person that the defendant has no control over.
• Act of God 


  Where the escape is caused by some natural or unforeseeable event.