proximate cause (redirected from Proximate causes)

proximate cause

Etymology: L, proximus, nearest

a legal concept of "cause-and-effect" relationships in determining, for example, whether an injury would have resulted from a particular cause.

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proximate cause (prok´smit),

n one that directly produces an effect; that which in ordinary, natural sequence produces a specific result with no agencies intervening.

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proximate cause

Malpractice An element required to prove negligence; the plaintiff–Pt or Pt's estate must prove that the Pt's injury is reasonably connected to the physician's action, through either the 'but for' test or the 'substantial factor' test. See 'But for' test, Negligence, 'Substantial factor' test.