What must be demonstrated for damages to be collected under a strict liability theory?

For damages to be collected under a strict liability theory, it must be shown that a product defect caused the injury. Strict liability is a legal doctrine that holds a party responsible for damages or injuries caused by their product, regardless of whether negligence or fault can be proven. This means that the injured party does not have to establish that the manufacturer or seller was negligent in the design or manufacture of the product; it is sufficient to demonstrate that there was a defect in the product that directly resulted in the injury.

This concept emphasizes the responsibility of manufacturers and sellers to ensure that their products are safe for use and to provide adequate warnings and instructions. If a defect—such as a design flaw, manufacturing defect, or inadequate instructions or warnings—exists and leads to injury or damage, strict liability applies, allowing the injured party to collect damages without needing to prove that the manufacturer acted unreasonably or failed in any duty of care.

Overall, the correct choice highlights the core principle of strict liability, which focuses solely on the existence of a defect and its direct link to the injury, rather than any intent or breach of contract.