Which form of negligence is defined as conduct that constitutes a willful or reckless disregard for a duty or standard of care?

Which form of negligence is defined as conduct that constitutes a willful or reckless disregard for a duty or standard of care?

• A. Negligence
• B. Gross Negligence
• C. Duty
• D. Causation

Answer: (B)

This question tests the level of fault in negligence claims. When conduct shows willful or reckless disregard for a duty or standard of care, that is gross negligence. It goes beyond ordinary negligence, which is simply failing to exercise reasonable care; gross negligence involves a conscious disregard for safety or a blatant indifference to potential harm. Duty and causation are separate elements—the duty is the obligation to act with reasonable care, and causation links the breach to the injury—so they’re not describing the degree of fault. Gross negligence is the form defined by that phrase.

This question tests the level of fault in negligence claims. When conduct shows willful or reckless disregard for a duty or standard of care, that is gross negligence. It goes beyond ordinary negligence, which is simply failing to exercise reasonable care; gross negligence involves a conscious disregard for safety or a blatant indifference to potential harm. Duty and causation are separate elements—the duty is the obligation to act with reasonable care, and causation links the breach to the injury—so they’re not describing the degree of fault. Gross negligence is the form defined by that phrase.