What type of negligence involves actions taken with reckless disregard for the consequences?

Gross negligence refers to conduct that demonstrates a complete disregard for the safety and reasonable treatment of others. It goes beyond simple negligence, which involves a failure to exercise reasonable care. In gross negligence, the individual's actions are so reckless that they amount to a substantial departure from the standard of care that a reasonable person would exercise in similar circumstances. This level of negligence indicates a conscious choice to ignore the possible harmful consequences of one's actions, highlighting an extreme lack of concern for the safety of others. Such behavior can lead to significant liability, as it demonstrates not just a failure to act reasonably, but an intention to act in a way that could foreseeably cause harm.