What is the term for the result of acting without proper care?

Negligence refers to the failure to exercise the degree of care that a reasonable person would in similar circumstances, leading to unintended harm or damage. In the context of insurance and legal responsibilities, negligence is a critical concept because it establishes a standard of care in various situations, such as in personal injury claims or when evaluating the actions of an insurance agent.

When an individual acts without proper care and this act results in harm or damage to another person or their property, it is classified as negligent behavior. This is essential for understanding how liability arises in legal and insurance contexts, as it often determines who is responsible for the resulting damages. The focus is on the lack of intent to cause harm and the absence of care that a reasonable person would typically take, making negligence a pivotal term in both law and insurance practices.