Legal Definitions - imminent danger

Imminent Danger

"Imminent danger" refers to a situation where harm, injury, or damage is about to occur immediately or very soon, presenting an urgent and unavoidable threat. It signifies a threat that is not merely a potential future risk but is actively and directly impending, requiring immediate action to prevent or mitigate the harm.

• Example 1: A person is walking down a street when another individual suddenly lunges at them with a raised fist, clearly intending to strike.

Explanation: In this scenario, the person is facing imminent danger because the physical assault is about to happen without delay. The threat of immediate bodily harm is direct and unavoidable without a defensive response.

• Example 2: During a construction project, workers notice a large, heavy piece of equipment on a raised platform begin to visibly tilt and creak loudly, indicating it is on the verge of falling.

Explanation: This situation represents imminent danger to anyone in the vicinity below the platform. The equipment's collapse and potential for severe injury or death are about to occur very soon, demanding immediate evacuation or stabilization efforts.

• Example 3: A firefighter enters a burning building and observes a section of the ceiling directly above them beginning to sag significantly, with cracks rapidly forming and debris starting to fall.

Explanation: The firefighter is in imminent danger because the ceiling's collapse, which could cause serious injury or entrapment, is about to happen immediately. The visible signs indicate an urgent and direct threat to their safety.