What is the legal definition of negligence?

Negligence is a legal term that refers to when someone fails to take reasonable measures to avoid causing harm to another person. In New Jersey, a person can be found negligent if their behavior or conduct fell short of what a reasonable person would have done in the same circumstances. If a person’s behavior is found to be negligent, they can be held legally responsible for the damages and losses that occurred as a result. For example, a driver may be considered negligent if they fail to obey the speed limit or fail to yield when required. A person may also be deemed negligent if they fail to exercise appropriate care when operating a vehicle. They may be liable if they do not take reasonable measures to ensure that their vehicle is in proper working order or do not follow the rules of the road. Likewise, a pedestrian may be liable for not properly checking to see if the path ahead is safe before crossing. In order for negligence to be proven, the court must show that the defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care, that this duty of care was breached, and that the breach of duty caused the plaintiff losses and damages. All three components must be shown for negligence to be proven. If any of these elements is missing or if the defendant’s action is not deemed unreasonable, then they may not be held liable for negligent behavior.

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What is the legal definition of negligence?

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