Opinion ID: 677522
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: Contributory Negligence and Assumption of Risk

Text: 17 The trial Court observed that the affirmative defenses of contributory negligence and assumption of risk are usually jury issues unless reasonable minds could not differ. Artip v. E.E. Berry, 240 Va. 354, 358 (1990). In this case, however, the trial Court found that they were established as a matter of law and were, therefore, alternative bases for granting summary judgment on all three of plaintiff's theories of relief. 3 18 The District Court noted that contributory negligence is determined by the objective standard of the reasonable man, Kelly v. Vepco, 238 Va. 32, 39 (1989), and held as a matter of law that Walker did not exercise reasonable care when he attempted to drive a forklift with no steering down a ramp without using the brakes. Walker knew that the steering was broken, that the brakes couldn't be used and that the lift was not equipped with restraints and could tip over. He also knew that the wheels would not stay straight even on a flat surface. After all, while removing the lift from the boxcar, Walker had to stop periodically so the maintenance men could straighten the wheels with bars. This Court agrees that no jury could find his behavior was objectively reasonable in light of these factors. 19 The test for assumption of risk is a subjective one of what the particular plaintiff knows, sees, understands and appreciates. It is venturousness and has two requirements: the nature and extent of the risk must be fully appreciated and the risk must be voluntarily incurred. Amusement Slides v. Lehmann, 217 Va. 815, 818-819 (1977). The District Court held that in light of Walker's knowledge of the aforementioned attending circumstances, he appreciated and voluntarily incurred the risks of riding the forklift in that condition. Again, we agree with the District Court's conclusion.