Res Ipsa Loquitur Definition

ipsəläkwətər

phrase

The thing speaks for itself.

Webster's New World

(law) A maxim where the very improbable facts of an accident imply the negligence of the defendant. It effectively shifts the burden of proof to the defendant.

Wiktionary

noun

The thing speaks for itself. An evidentiary rule in torts that the very fact that an accident occurred is enough to provide a prima facie case of negligent behavior. Rear-ending another automobile is an example, showing failure to maintain a safe distance on the part of the rear-ender.

Webster's New World Law

Origin of Res Ipsa Loquitur

From the Latin phrase rÄ“s ipsa loquitur (“the thing speaks for itself").

From Wiktionary
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From Webster's New World College Dictionary, 5th Edition