Legal Definitions - peculiar-risk doctrine

The peculiar-risk doctrine is a legal principle that holds an employer responsible for any injury caused by an independent contractor if the employer did not take necessary precautions against a risk that is unique to the contractor's work and that the employer should have recognized.

For example, if a construction company hires an independent contractor to work on a high-rise building, the company is responsible for ensuring that the contractor takes necessary safety measures to prevent falls. If the contractor fails to do so and an employee is injured, the construction company can be held liable under the peculiar-risk doctrine.

Another example could be a company that hires an independent contractor to transport hazardous materials. The company must ensure that the contractor has the necessary permits and safety equipment to transport the materials safely. If the contractor fails to do so and an accident occurs, the company can be held liable under the peculiar-risk doctrine.

The peculiar-risk doctrine is important because it encourages employers to take necessary precautions to prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace, even when they are not directly responsible for the work being done.