Gross Negligence

Type:
Term: Gross NegligenceDefinition: Gross negligence refers to a severe lack of care or extreme recklessness that indicates a conscious disregard for the safety of others. It goes beyond ordinary negligence and is often considered in legal contexts as a basis for punitive damages.Phonetic Pronunciation: (grohs NEGLI-jens)Origin: The term "negligence" stems from the Latin word "negligentia," which means "carelessness" or "heedlessness." The concept of gross negligence evolved in common law jurisdictions to differentiate it from simple negligence, indicating a more severe degree of fault.Significance in Asbestos Context: In asbestos litigation, proving gross negligence by defendants, such as employers or manufacturers, can be crucial. It may lead to higher compensation awards, including punitive damages, due to the egregious nature of ignoring known asbestos hazards.Example Sentence: The jury found the company liable for gross negligence after it was revealed that they knowingly exposed workers to asbestos without adequate safety measures.Related Terms: Punitive Damages, Willful Misconduct, Reckless Disregard, Ordinary Negligence, LiabilityNotes: - Gross negligence is not the same as intentional harm, though both can lead to punitive damages. - The threshold for gross negligence varies by jurisdiction, affecting how it's applied in asbestos cases. - Proving gross negligence often requires substantial evidence of the defendant's awareness and disregard of asbestos risks.