What is Gross Negligence?

Gross negligence is a level of carelessness so severe that it demonstrates a blatant disregard for the safety and wellbeing of others. Unlike ordinary negligence, gross negligence reflects a complete indifference to the potential harm that could result from one’s actions. It does not necessarily mean there was an intent to harm, but the reckless behavior involved poses a clear and significant danger to others.

Most personal injury cases involve claims of negligence, which is any form of carelessness that leads to injury or damage. However, gross negligence is more extreme—it’s outright recklessness that would shock most reasonable people.

Ordinary Negligence vs. Gross Negligence

It’s important to differentiate between ordinary negligence and gross negligence:

• Ordinary Negligence: This involves simple carelessness or a failure to act responsibly, which results in injury. For example, if a convenience store owner fails to clean up a spill for several hours and a customer slips and gets hurt, that’s ordinary negligence. It’s a mistake, but not one of extreme recklessness.
• Gross Negligence: This involves actions that anyone would recognize as highly dangerous. For instance, if the same store owner deliberately pours oil on the floor as a prank to see if someone slips, that would be gross negligence. Even if the intention wasn’t to cause serious harm, the indifference to potential consequences elevates the act to gross negligence.

Examples of Gross Negligence

Gross negligence can occur in various circumstances. Here are some examples:

• A driver speeds onto a sidewalk where children are playing, showing no regard for their safety.
• A doctor prescribes a medication to a patient despite knowing it could cause serious harm due to the patient’s medical history.
• An individual recklessly fires a gun into a crowded space to stop a pickpocket, putting countless lives in danger.

These examples illustrate actions that go beyond ordinary negligence. They showcase a complete disregard for others’ safety, often resulting in preventable injuries. Determining whether an act constitutes gross negligence can be complex, which is why consulting a personal injury attorney is critical.

Legal Consequences of Gross Negligence

If someone’s gross negligence causes injury or harm, they are almost always considered legally liable for the damages they cause. In Connecticut, you have the right to pursue compensation if you or a loved one has been injured due to another party’s reckless behavior. While gross negligence may sometimes overlap with criminal behavior (e.g., reckless driving or DUI), a person can still be held liable for damages in a civil case, even if no criminal charges are filed or proven.

It’s also worth noting that proving gross negligence may allow victims to recover additional damages, such as punitive damages, which are intended to punish the reckless behavior and deter others from acting similarly.

Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you or someone you care about has been injured due to gross negligence, it’s vital to have an experienced legal team on your side. At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we specialize in personal injury cases in Connecticut, including those involving gross negligence.

Our attorneys understand how to navigate the complexities of Connecticut’s legal system, and we have the experience needed to advocate for you effectively in front of a jury or a judge.

We know that dealing with injuries can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. That’s why we offer a free consultation to discuss your case and provide guidance on your next steps. Whether your case is resolved through a settlement or proceeds to a jury trial, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Contact Bert McDowell Injury Law Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall, workplace incident, or any other type of accident caused by negligence, don’t wait to seek legal help. Bert McDowell Injury Law is here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 475-231-3274 to schedule your free consultation. You can also fill out our contact form to get started.

We take pride in serving clients across Connecticut and ensuring that their voices are heard in both settlement negotiations and in the courtroom. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you.