Negligence occurs when an individual is found to have committed an action that falls below the standard of care a reasonable person would have exercised in a given situation. Gross negligence takes this concept a step further, often leading to premises liability issues. When an individual commits a grossly negligent action, then he or she has committed an action that falls substantially below what is considered reasonable. In many cases, it may also mean that the individual who committed the action did so intentionally. If you have been harmed due to another’s actions or inaction, you need the Northglenn gross negligence lawyers at Hull & Zimmerman, P.C. on your side.
Elements of Gross Negligence
For an act to be considered grossly negligent, it must first pass the negligence test. The negligence test requires that:
- An individual owes his or her accuser a duty
- The individual fails to uphold this duty
- The accuser suffers harm
- The harm was a foreseeable consequence of failing to uphold the duty
An action that passes this test may be grossly negligent if a few other circumstances are also true. These circumstances may include:
- The individual committing the action knew of the potential consequences
- The individual committing the action did so intentionally to harm the accuser
Many premises liability injuries occur, such as slips and falls, as a result of gross negligence. Individuals who are found to have committed gross negligence may face stiff penalties for their actions, and a Northglenn lawyer can help you ensure they do.
Accidents that Can Occur
Punishment for Gross Negligence
As with other civil law cases, gross negligence cases will result in the defendant being found innocent or guilty for his or her actions, especially with a dedicated Northglenn lawyer working the case. If the individual is found guilty, he or she may be ordered to pay:
- Special damages to cover any costs the victim incurred in the accident
- General damages to compensate the victim for pain and suffering
- Punitive damages as punishment for committing a grossly negligent action
Punitive damages are only paid in cases of gross negligence and are meant to deter individuals from committing similar actions in the future. All damages are paid to the accuser, who is also known as the plaintiff.
Contact a Gross Negligence Lawyer in Northglenn For Help Today
Individuals who commit grossly negligent actions likely knew of the potential harm that could have resulted and should be punished. For more information about holding a grossly negligent person accountable, please contact the Northglenn gross negligence lawyers of Hull & Zimmerman, P.C., at (303) 647-1999.
