COLLATERAL-SOURCE RULE

collateral-source rule. Torts. The doctrine that if an injured party receives compensation for the injuries from a source independent of the tortfeasor, the payment should not be deducted from the damages that the tortfeasor must pay. • Insurance proceeds are the most common collateral source. — Also termed collateral-benefit rule. [Cases: Damages 59. C.J.S. Damages […]