How is "gross negligence" best defined?

Gross negligence is best defined as a severe lack of care or reckless disregard for the safety of others. This definition captures the essence of gross negligence, which goes beyond simple carelessness or mistakes. It indicates a significant and willful disregard for the potential consequences of one's actions. In a legal context, this can lead to greater liability because it suggests that a party not only failed to exercise a reasonable standard of care, but also acted with an outright negligence that is far more severe than ordinary negligence.

This understanding is crucial in various scenarios, particularly in legal cases involving accidents or injuries, where identifying the difference between ordinary negligence and gross negligence can significantly impact the determination of liability and damages. It highlights the seriousness of the behavior shown by an individual or organization, indicating that their actions were not just careless but exhibited a blatant disregard for the well-being of others.