Legal Definitions - step-in-the-dark rule

In tort law, the step-in-the-dark rule states that a person who enters an unfamiliar area in the dark has a duty to refrain from proceeding until they ascertain the existence of any dangerous obstacles, unless there is unusual stress. This means that if someone enters a dark area they are not familiar with, they must take reasonable steps to ensure their safety before proceeding.

For example, if someone is walking in a park at night and comes across a dark area they are not familiar with, they should stop and assess the area for any potential hazards before proceeding. If they fail to do so and are injured, they may be found to have contributed to their own injury through their negligence.