Negligence Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Negligence, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Negligence?

It refers to behaviour of a person which has caused an injury or damage to another person because of formers below standard, careless responsibility. In law, the negligence of the person is considered legal cause and can be tried in the court. Any prudent man with level head and brains, if does something which he or any other prudent man, ought not do, is negligence on part of him. Negligence can also cause a consequent event to happen and can lead to disaster to other person life as well.

History and Meaning of Negligence

Negligence is a legal term that has been used for centuries. It first appeared in English law during the 17th century and has since been used in courts all around the world. Negligence is often defined as a failure to take reasonable care or to do something that a reasonable person would do in similar circumstances. Negligence can cause harm or damage to another person, and if this happens, the person who caused the harm may be held legally responsible.

Examples of Negligence

  1. A doctor who fails to diagnose a serious medical condition could be considered negligent.
  2. A driver who runs a red light and causes an accident could be considered negligent.
  3. An employer who fails to provide their employees with proper safety equipment could be considered negligent.
  4. A store owner who fails to warn customers of a slippery floor could be considered negligent.
  5. A property owner who fails to properly maintain their property could be considered negligent if someone is injured on their property.

Legal Terms Similar to Negligence

  1. Duty of care - The legal obligation to act with reasonable care to avoid causing harm to others.
  2. Breach of duty - A failure to meet the standards of care expected of a person or entity.
  3. Causation - The link between the negligent conduct and the harm or damage that resulted from that conduct.
  4. Contributory negligence - When the negligence of the injured party contributes to their own harm or damages.
  5. Comparative negligence - When the negligence of both parties is considered, and damages are apportioned based on the degree of fault of each party.