A patient sues a physician for negligence and loses. The patient then sues the physician for breach of contract. The second suit is dismissed under what doctrine?

A. res ipsa loquitur
B. release of tortfeasor
C. Good Samaritan statutes
D. statute of limitations
E. res judicata

E. res judicata

Res judicata means the claim cannot be retried The statute of limitations sets the time period in which a party may be sued for negligence. The Good Samaritan statute protects individuals who act in an emergency. Release of tortfeasor is a technical defense in an already filed lawsuit. Res ipsa loquitur is the doctrine of common knowledge.