How is simple negligence defined?

Simple negligence is defined as negligent conduct that does not stem from any intent to cause harm. It occurs when an individual fails to exercise the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would have exercised in a similar situation, leading to unintentional harm or damage. This concept underscores the importance of a failure to act in a manner that is considered responsible or reasonable, rather than implying any deliberate wrongdoing or malicious intent.

Understanding simple negligence is critical because it highlights how ordinary carelessness can result in liability, contrasting it with more severe forms of misconduct such as reckless behavior or actions driven by intent to harm. The focus here is on the failure to meet a duty of care rather than an individual's intentions or the severity of their actions.