For a victim of a violent act, what does substantial cause mean?

• A. 10 to 20%
• B. 20 to 30%
• C. 35 to 40%
• D. 40 to 50%

Answer: (C)

Substantial cause in the context of legal and insurance terminology refers to a significant factor that plays a role in contributing to the outcome of an event, particularly in cases involving harm or injury due to violent acts. The selection of 35 to 40% as the range defines a threshold where the contribution of the cause is meaningful and substantial enough to have been a considerable factor in the occurrence of the injury.

This percentage range aligns with the understanding that while multiple factors can contribute to an event, this level of contribution indicates that the factor in question is more than just a trivial or marginal cause. It reflects that the violent act is a key element influencing the victim's injury, which is essential when determining liability or eligibility for coverage in self-insured practices.