Download This PaperCorrelated Accidents
Quaderni - W.P. DSE N° 1074 Published in American Law and Economics Review, Fall 2016, vol. 18 (2): 358-384
30 Pages Posted: 3 Sep 2016 Last revised: 24 Oct 2016
Date Written: August 31, 2016
Abstract
This paper investigates cases in which harms are statistically correlated. When parties are risk averse, correlation plays an important role in the choice between liability rules. Specifically, positively correlated harms favor a liability rule that spreads the risk over a multitude of parties, as in the negligence rule. Negatively correlated harms favor a liability rule that pools risks together, as in strict liability. The same applies when parties can purchase costly insurance (first party or third party).
This policy recommendation is in line with current products liability law, which places design defects and warning failures under a de facto negligence regime.
Keywords: K13
JEL Classification: negligence vs. strict liability, correlation, products liability
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation
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