IMPACT RULE

impact rule.Torts. The common-law requirement that physical contact must have occurred to allow damages for negligent infliction of emotional distress. • This rule has been abandoned in most jurisdictions. — Also termed physical-impact rule. [Cases: Damages 50. C.J.S. Damages § 96; Torts §§ 74, 80–81, 83.]

[Blacks Law 8th]