Negligence

What is Negligence?

Negligence is the failure to use a reasonable degree of care given the circumstances. The four elements of negligence are a duty owed to a plaintiff, a breach of that duty by the defendant, proximate cause, and injury or damage suffered by the plaintiff. It is essentially carelessness.

According to Black’s Law Dictionary, negligence is defined as “the failure to exercise the standard of care that a reasonably prudent person would have exercised in a similar situation.” As such, negligence refers to a failure to exercise the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in similar circumstances. It forms the basis of many personal injury claims and lawsuits, where a plaintiff alleges that their injuries or damages were caused by the negligent actions or omissions of another party.

Key elements of negligence include:

  • Duty of care: The legal obligation of an individual or entity to exercise reasonable care to avoid causing harm to others. This duty may arise from professional relationships, ownership of property, or other circumstances.
  • Breach of duty: A failure to fulfill the duty of care by acting or failing to act in a way that deviates from what a reasonably prudent person would do.
  • Causation: The link between the defendant’s breach of duty and the plaintiff’s injuries or damages. It must be shown that the defendant’s actions or omissions directly caused harm to the plaintiff.
  • Damages: Actual harm or losses suffered by the plaintiff as a result of the defendant’s negligent conduct, which may include physical injuries, emotional distress, property damage, or financial losses.

Legal principles related to negligence aim to compensate injured parties for their losses and encourage individuals and businesses to act responsibly to prevent foreseeable harm. For example, if your landlord doesn’t fix a rickety set of steps you let him to, and you fall through the steps a week later, the landlord is negligent in his duty of care. Understanding the elements of negligence is essential in personal injury cases and other legal disputes where liability is based on the failure to exercise reasonable care under specific circumstance

More information about Negligence

Is Cerebral Palsy Caused by a Birth Injury?

Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain that affects a person’s ability to control their muscles.

Cerebral palsy can vary in severity, with some individuals experiencing mild symptoms and others having severe limitations in their movement and coordination. Understanding the causes of cerebral palsy is essential as it can help in the prevention and management of the condition, and also provide valuable insights for families and caregivers in coping with the challenges posed by cerebral palsy.

If you think your child’s cerebral palsy was caused by a birth injury, do not hesitate to reach out to one of our birth injury attorneys at Munley Law. We offer a free consultation for new clients where we will listen to your story and offer expert legal advice. […]

Read More

More information about Negligence

What Is the Statute of Limitations For a Slip and Fall Injury in Philadelphia?

injured work after a slip and fall in PhiladelphiaPhiladelphia, the City of Brotherly Love, is renowned for its rich history, iconic Liberty Bell, and irresistible cheesesteaks. Its unique blend of historic charm and modern urban life attracts millions every year. Yet, like any bustling city, accidents such as slip and fall injuries are not uncommon on its cobblestone streets and contemporary establishments. Understanding the statute of limitations — a legal term that refers to the set duration within which one must initiate legal proceedings from the date of an alleged offense — becomes vital in such scenarios.

This time limit serves to ensure fairness in legal claims and prevent stale claims from arising. For anyone in Philadelphia who has experienced a slip and fall, being aware of these time constraints is crucial. Such knowledge can mean the difference between receiving due compensation or missing out due to a legal technicality. If you or someone you know is involved in such an accident in this iconic city, […]

Read More

More information about Negligence

Upper Darby Lyft Accident Lawyer 

Upper Darby Lyft Accident Lawyer Upper Darby, nestled in the bustling metropolitan area of Pennsylvania, has witnessed a surge in the popularity of rideshare services like Lyft. As these services become an integral part of our daily transportation, the unfortunate reality is that Lyft accidents are on the rise. Whether you are a passenger, a Lyft driver, or a third party affected by a Lyft accident, it is crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced accident lawyer to guide you through the complex legal landscape.

At Munley Law, we understand the unique challenges that Lyft accident victims face, from dealing with insurance companies to securing fair compensation for medical bills and lost wages. Our Lyft accident attorneys have a proven track record of successfully navigating these challenges, ensuring that our clients receive the maximum compensation they deserve.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a Lyft accident in Upper Darby, […]

Read More

More information about Negligence

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries: Causes, Consequences, and Legal Support

Spinal cord injuries are devastating events that can change a person’s life forever. They often result in significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Philadelphia spinal cord injury lawyers at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys are dedicated to providing support and legal assistance to those affected by these traumatic injuries.

Most Common Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

There are two main types of spinal cord injuries – complete and incomplete. A complete injury results in a total loss of sensory and motor function below the injury level, while an incomplete injury means that there is some remaining function. The severity of the injury depends on the location and extent of the damage.

Long-term Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries

The long-term effects of spinal cord injuries are profound and can affect every aspect of a person’s life. Common consequences include paralysis (quadriplegia or paraplegia), […]

Read More

More information about Negligence

Lancaster Premises Liability Lawyers

Holding property owners in Lancaster County responsible for their dangerous spaces

due to hazardous property conditionsLancaster County, with its rich history, charming towns, and beautiful landscapes, is a place where residents and visitors alike should feel safe to explore and enjoy. From the historic streets of downtown Lancaster to the scenic beauty of the surrounding Amish countryside, this region is filled with cultural treasures and natural wonders. Unfortunately, when property owners fail to maintain safe spaces, these attractions can become perilous. At Munley Law, our premises liability lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of those injured due to such property owner’s negligence. We are committed to holding property owners accountable and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve, preserving the integrity and safety of our beloved Lancaster County.

Lancaster slip and fall accidents: injuries due to slippery or uneven surfaces on someone else’s Lancaster property

Slip and fall accidents are among the most common types of premises liability cases. […]

Read More
Search
Categories
Archives
LCA
PA Bar Association
top 100
Super Lawyers
Best law firms
best lawyers
top 1% of trial lawyers
av
Irish Legal
BBB Accreditation Badge The information contained on this website does not create an attorney-client relationship nor should any information be considered legal advice as it is intended to provide general information only. Prior case results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
844-263-8849
Back to Top