Simple English definitions for legal terms
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The torpedo doctrine is a rule that says if someone owns property with a dangerous thing or condition that could attract children to come onto the property, they have a duty to protect those children from the danger. This means that if there is something on the property that could hurt a child, the owner needs to make sure the child is safe. This rule is also called the attractive-nuisance doctrine or turntable doctrine. Examples of dangerous things could be a swimming pool or a broken fence.
Definition: The torpedo doctrine is also known as the attractive-nuisance doctrine in tort law. It states that if a person owns property with a dangerous condition or object that could attract children to trespass, they have a duty to protect those children from harm.
For example, if a homeowner has a swimming pool in their backyard, they must take reasonable steps to prevent children from accessing it without supervision. If a child is injured or drowns in the pool, the homeowner could be held liable for negligence under the torpedo doctrine.
The torpedo doctrine is based on the idea that children are not always capable of understanding the risks associated with dangerous conditions or objects. Therefore, property owners have a responsibility to take extra precautions to protect them.