What does contributory negligence refer to?

Contributory negligence is a legal concept that arises in the context of tort law, specifically negligence cases. It refers to a situation where an individual’s own actions contribute to the harm they have suffered. In this context, when someone neglects to follow advice or engages in behavior that a reasonable person would avoid, and this behavior contributes to an injury or damage, they may be deemed partly responsible for their own harm.

This principle is essential in determining liability because it acknowledges that while one party may be primarily at fault, the injured party may have also played a role in their injury through their own negligence. The consequences of contributory negligence can result in a reduction of damages awarded to the injured party, reflecting their share of the responsibility for the incident.

In the provided context, option B reflects this understanding as it directly relates to the individual neglecting vital advice, which is a clear example of how their own actions can lead to their injury.