res ipsa loquitur

English - English

Definition of res ipsa loquitur in English English dictionary

A maxim where the very improbable facts of an accident imply the negligence of the defendant. It effectively shifts the burden of proof to the defendant

a rule of evidence whereby the negligence of an alleged wrongdoer can be inferred from the fact that the accident happened

(Latin) the thing speaks for itself (damage claim that transfers the burden of proof onto the recklessness or negligence)

Hyphenation

res ipsa lo·qui·tur

Synonyms

clear cut, cut and dried, open and shut, open and shut case

Etymology

() From the Latin phrase rēs ipsa loquitur (“the thing speaks for itself”).