Assumption of the risk is a defense raised in personal injury lawsuits. The defense claims that the plaintiff knew that a particular activity was dangerous and thus bears all responsibility for any injury that resulted. In order to show the risk was assumed, the danger assumed must be obvious or the nature of the activity causing injury must be inherently dangerous. Assumption of the risk may be proven by a clause in a contract stating the existence of the danger and the waiver of liability of the defendant for injuries caused, but may be shown by other evidence. Once proven, assumption of risk may bar the plaintiff from any recovery for injuries.
