What is the assumption of risk doctrine in insurance?

The assumption of risk doctrine in insurance refers to a legal principle that prevents a party from recovering damages for injuries that occur from risks that they voluntarily and knowingly accepted. This doctrine is particularly relevant in cases where an individual is fully aware of a risk involved in an activity but chooses to engage in that activity anyway. By doing so, they acknowledge and accept the associated risks, which can limit or eliminate their ability to claim compensation for any resulting injuries or damages.

In the context of insurance, this means that if a person engages in a risky behavior or participates in a specific activity where they are aware of the dangers, they may be barred from seeking damages from an insurer or another party if they sustain injuries directly related to those known risks. This principle emphasizes personal responsibility and the recognition that individuals have the right to accept certain risks in exchange for the benefits associated with those activities.