What is the legal definition of negligence?

The legal definition of negligence focuses on the concept of failing to exercise reasonable care, which is reflected in the chosen answer. Negligence occurs when an individual does not act as a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances, resulting in harm or damage to another party. This standard is fundamental in tort law, as it establishes the benchmark for behavior expected in society.

In legal terms, the "reasonably prudent person" standard assesses actions based on what an average person would do, considering the specific context of the situation. If a person's actions fall short of this standard, they may be found negligent, leading to liability for damages incurred as a result of that negligence.

The other options do not accurately define negligence. A deliberate violation of law causing damage pertains to intentional torts, which differ fundamentally from negligence, where the harm is unintentional. Inability to fulfill a contract relates to breach of contract rather than negligence, as it involves a failure to meet contractual obligations rather than a lack of care. A lack of intention to cause harm may describe negligence in a general sense, but it does not capture the complete definition, which also includes the failure to meet the standard of care expected in society.