A definition of Ordinary negligence:

• A. Will always refer to bodily injury to a third party.
• B. The failure to do what a reasonable person would do in a given situation.
• C. Basically the same as gross negligence.
• D. Would always include reference to impaired driving.

Answer: (B)

Ordinary negligence rests on the reasonable-person standard: you’re judged by whether you acted as a reasonably prudent person would in the same situation. When that reasonable standard isn’t met and a person’s lapse causes harm, liability can arise. This definition captures the everyday, non-intentional failure to take normal precautions, which can lead to injuries or property damage in a wide range of contexts. It isn’t tied to bodily injury to a third party alone, and it isn’t the same as gross negligence, which implies a reckless disregard for safety. It also doesn’t require impairment like drinking and driving; ordinary negligence can occur in many ordinary circumstances.