What is the principle of contributory negligence in relation to liability?

The principle of contributory negligence asserts that if an individual contributes to their own loss or injury, it can prevent them from recovering damages from another party in a liability claim. This principle emphasizes personal responsibility, suggesting that even if another party is also at fault, the individual may not be able to collect compensation if their own negligence contributed to the outcome.

This reflects the idea that liability can be apportioned based on the actions of all parties involved, whereby any contribution to the loss by the injured party can limit or eliminate the liability of the other party. In legal contexts, this principle serves to promote safer behavior by holding individuals accountable for their own actions and decisions that may have precipitated their injuries or losses.

In this case, the correct answer accurately captures the essence of contributory negligence, which distinguishes it from other concepts of liability that may involve shared responsibility or complete fault.