{"id":29235,"date":"2026-08-19T18:47:41","date_gmt":"2026-08-19T18:47:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/negligent-security-injury-lawyer\/what-are-the-three-types-of-negligence\/"},"modified":"2026-09-15T10:42:41","modified_gmt":"2026-09-15T10:42:41","slug":"what-are-the-three-types-of-negligence","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/negligent-security-injury-lawyer\/what-are-the-three-types-of-negligence\/","title":{"rendered":"What Are the Three Types of Negligence in Injury"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-secondary-background-color has-background-dim-60 has-background-dim\"><\/span><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background\" alt=\"Person in wheelchair looking forward with determination after spinal injury.\" src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-in-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-determination-afte-photo.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-in-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-determination-afte-photo-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-in-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-determination-afte-photo-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-in-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-determination-afte-photo-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-in-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-determination-afte-photo-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-in-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-determination-afte-photo.jpg 1376w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1376px) 100vw, 1376px\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding Negligence<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">The Three Types of Negligence in Catastrophic Injury Claims<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);\">When a life-altering injury changes everything, knowing how negligence works is the first step toward understanding your rights.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Get a Free Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a Free Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By CHG Lawyers \u00b7 Published September 03, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n<h2>Understanding the Three Types of Negligence in Catastrophic Injury Claims<\/h2>\n<p>When a catastrophic injury changes your life forever, understanding the three types of negligence becomes crucial. These categories determine whether you have a valid claim and what damages you can recover.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"\/resources\/glossary\/paralysis\/\">Paralysis<\/a> from an assault at an unsecured apartment. A <a href=\"\/resources\/traumatic-brain-injury\/\">traumatic brain injury<\/a> from violence in a parking garage. An amputation from a truck crash caused by reckless driving.<\/p>\n<p>In each case, one question matters: <em>Who was careless?<\/em> The three types of negligence answer that question and shape your legal options.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/injured-foot-in-cast-resting-on-wheelchair-photo-4-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Injured foot in cast resting on wheelchair.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" srcset=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/injured-foot-in-cast-resting-on-wheelchair-photo-4-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/injured-foot-in-cast-resting-on-wheelchair-photo-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/injured-foot-in-cast-resting-on-wheelchair-photo-4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/injured-foot-in-cast-resting-on-wheelchair-photo-4-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/injured-foot-in-cast-resting-on-wheelchair-photo-4-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/injured-foot-in-cast-resting-on-wheelchair-photo-4.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Ordinary Negligence: The Foundation of Most Claims<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Ordinary negligence<\/strong> is the failure to exercise reasonable care. A reasonably careful person would have acted differently. This is the baseline standard in personal injury law and the most common basis for negligent security claims.<\/p>\n<h3>Real-World Scenarios<\/h3>\n<p>Ordinary negligence in premises liability looks like this:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Broken locks at an apartment complex.<\/strong> A property manager knows the front-door lock is broken. They do not repair it for weeks. An intruder enters and assaults a resident. The property owner owed a duty to maintain basic security. They breached that duty by failing to fix the lock.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Inadequate lighting in a parking garage.<\/strong> A garage operator fails to replace burned-out lights in stairwells. A visitor is attacked in near-total darkness. The operator knew lighting was essential to safety but did nothing.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>No security cameras in hotel common areas.<\/strong> A hotel does not install working cameras in lobbies, hallways, or elevators. Guests have been robbed or assaulted. Management is aware of prior incidents but takes no action.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Unsecured perimeter at a commercial property.<\/strong> A business fails to maintain gates or fencing. Violent crime occurs regularly on the grounds. Management ignores the problem.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In each case, the property owner had a legal duty to provide reasonable security. The failure to do so\u2014combined with a resulting catastrophic injury\u2014forms an ordinary negligence claim.<\/p>\n<h3>The Four Elements You Must Prove<\/h3>\n<p>To win an ordinary negligence claim, you must establish four legal elements:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Duty:<\/strong> The defendant owed you a legal duty of care. Property owners owe visitors and residents a duty to maintain reasonably safe premises.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Breach:<\/strong> The defendant failed to meet that duty. They did not install locks, lighting, cameras, or guards.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Causation:<\/strong> The breach directly caused your injury. The broken lock allowed an attacker to enter. The darkness prevented you from seeing danger.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Damages:<\/strong> You suffered measurable harm. Medical bills, lost income, permanent disability, and pain and suffering are all damages.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>All four must be proven for liability to attach.<\/p>\n<h3>Damages in Ordinary Negligence Cases<\/h3>\n<p>Ordinary negligence claims typically seek <strong>compensatory damages<\/strong>\u2014money to make you whole:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/spinal-cord-injury\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20377890\">Medical treatment, hospitalization, surgery, and rehabilitation<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Ongoing care and adaptive equipment (wheelchairs, home modifications, nursing care)<\/li>\n<li>Lost wages and lost earning capacity<\/li>\n<li>Pain and suffering<\/li>\n<li>Permanent disability and reduced quality of life<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Gross Negligence: Reckless Disregard for Safety<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Gross negligence<\/strong> goes far beyond ordinary carelessness. It reflects a conscious or deliberate failure to exercise reasonable care. The defendant knows such failure is likely to result in serious injury or death.<\/p>\n<h3>The Key Distinction<\/h3>\n<p>The critical difference between ordinary and gross negligence is the defendant&#8217;s <em>state of mind<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>Ordinary negligence is passive\u2014someone simply fails to act carefully.<\/p>\n<p>Gross negligence is active\u2014someone knows a serious risk exists and deliberately ignores it.<\/p>\n<h3>Real-World Examples<\/h3>\n<p>Gross negligence in a premises-liability context typically involves:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Repeated violent crimes and deliberate inaction.<\/strong> A property owner receives incident reports documenting multiple assaults, robberies, or shootings over months or years. Despite this knowledge, they refuse to install locks, lighting, cameras, or hire guards. This conscious disregard for tenant and visitor safety is gross negligence.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Ignored safety complaints.<\/strong> A business receives written complaints from employees or customers about dangerous conditions or prior attacks. Management acknowledges the complaints but takes no corrective action. The deliberate choice to do nothing\u2014despite awareness of the risk\u2014can constitute gross negligence.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Known dangerous conditions.<\/strong> A property owner is aware that a stairwell is dark, unsecured, or frequented by criminals. They allow the condition to persist without remedy.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Failure to warn after prior incidents.<\/strong> A parking garage has experienced multiple assaults. They post no warning signs, provide no security personnel, and do not alert users to the danger.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Punitive Damages: A Significant Consequence<\/h3>\n<p>The most important consequence of gross negligence is the potential availability of <strong>punitive damages<\/strong>\u2014money awarded to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct by others.<\/p>\n<p>Under <a href=\"http:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0768\/Sections\/0768.72.html\">Florida Statute \u00a7 768.72<\/a>, punitive damages may be awarded in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct. The defendant&#8217;s conduct must be &#8220;intentional or in reckless disregard of the rights, safety, or welfare of others.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>In a catastrophic injury case\u2014such as paralysis from an assault at a property with a documented history of violent crime and zero security\u2014the difference between ordinary and gross negligence can be substantial. It can mean the difference between recovering your medical costs and lost income, and recovering those damages <em>plus<\/em> a substantial punitive award.<\/p>\n<h2>Comparative Negligence: When Multiple Parties Share Fault<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Comparative negligence<\/strong> is a legal rule that allows a court to assign a percentage of fault to each party involved in an accident or injury. Under this rule, you can recover damages even if you bear some responsibility\u2014as long as you are not primarily at fault.<\/p>\n<h3>Florida&#8217;s Modified Comparative-Negligence Rule<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0768\/Sections\/0768.81.html\">Florida Statute \u00a7 768.81<\/a> establishes Florida&#8217;s modified comparative-negligence standard.<\/p>\n<p>You can recover damages if you are <em>less than 50% at fault<\/em>.<\/p>\n<p>If you are 50% or more at fault, you recover nothing.<\/p>\n<p>If you are less at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of responsibility.<\/p>\n<h3>A Concrete Example<\/h3>\n<p>Imagine you are attacked in a parking garage at night:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The property owner failed to maintain working lights in the stairwell (ordinary negligence on the owner&#8217;s part).<\/li>\n<li>You also ignored posted safety warnings and walked alone through an isolated, unlit area late at night (contributory negligence on your part).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A jury might find:\n\u2013 Property owner: 70% at fault\n\u2013 You: 30% at fault<\/p>\n<p>If your total damages are $100,000, you would recover $70,000. Your award is reduced by your 30% responsibility.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The critical point:<\/strong> comparative negligence does <em>not<\/em> bar your recovery. It simply adjusts the amount based on shared responsibility.<\/p>\n<p>Many injury victims fear that any personal responsibility will eliminate their claim entirely. In Florida, that is not the case.<\/p>\n<h3>Contributory Negligence Defined<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Contributory negligence<\/strong> refers specifically to your own careless actions that contributed to your injury. Examples include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ignoring warning signs or security instructions<\/li>\n<li>Entering a clearly dangerous area despite warnings<\/li>\n<li>Failing to use available safety features or equipment<\/li>\n<li>Being present in a restricted or off-limits area<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Even if you contributed to the circumstances, you can still recover from the party primarily responsible.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Have questions about what happened?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask our team directly. The first conversation is free, confidential, and there is no obligation to continue.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Talk to our team<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Talk to our team<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>How the Three Types of Negligence Apply to Catastrophic Injuries<\/h2>\n<h3>Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis<\/h3>\n<p>A person is assaulted in the hallway of an apartment complex and suffers <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/spinal-cord-injury\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20377890\">a spinal cord injury resulting in paraplegia<\/a>. The property owner failed to maintain working locks and did not provide adequate lighting in common areas.<\/p>\n<p>This is ordinary negligence. If the owner had received prior reports of violent crime and deliberately refused to install security measures, it may rise to gross negligence\u2014potentially opening the door to punitive damages.<\/p>\n<h3>Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)<\/h3>\n<p>A guest at a hotel is struck during a robbery in a dimly lit hallway. The hotel failed to install or maintain security cameras despite prior robberies on the property.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the hotel&#8217;s knowledge of prior incidents and its deliberate inaction, this could be ordinary or gross negligence. See our guide to <a href=\"\/resources\/traumatic-brain-injury\/\">traumatic brain injury claims<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<h3>Amputation or Severe Injury from Workplace Negligence<\/h3>\n<p>A worker suffers an amputation due to defective equipment that the employer knew was dangerous but failed to repair or replace.<\/p>\n<p>This may constitute gross negligence if the employer was aware of the hazard and deliberately ignored it.<\/p>\n<h3>Severe Burns or Other Catastrophic Injuries<\/h3>\n<p>A person is severely burned in a fire at a commercial property where the owner failed to maintain working fire suppression systems, emergency exits, or evacuation procedures.<\/p>\n<p>The type of negligence depends on whether the owner knew of the hazard and deliberately failed to address it.<\/p>\n<h2>Connecting Negligence Types to the Four Elements of Proof<\/h2>\n<p>The three types of negligence describe <em>categories of carelessness<\/em>. The four elements of negligence describe <em>what must be proven<\/em> to establish liability.<\/p>\n<p>Think of it this way:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The type of negligence<\/strong> (ordinary, gross, or comparative) describes the <em>nature<\/em> of the breach and the defendant&#8217;s state of mind.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The four elements<\/strong> (duty, breach, causation, damages) describe the <em>framework<\/em> for proving liability.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In a negligent security case:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Duty:<\/strong> The property owner had a legal duty to provide reasonable security measures.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Breach:<\/strong> They breached that duty by failing to install locks, lighting, cameras, or guards.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Causation:<\/strong> That breach allowed a violent crime to occur, and the crime caused your catastrophic injury.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p><strong>Damages:<\/strong> You suffered severe, permanent harm requiring ongoing medical care, lost income, and permanent disability.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Understanding both the type and the elements helps clarify the strength of your claim and what evidence will be needed to prove it. Learn more about catastrophic injury claims and how we can help.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/doctor-examining-patient-s-neck-in-hospital-setting-photo-1-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"Doctor examining patient&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#x27;s neck in hospital setting.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" srcset=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/doctor-examining-patient-s-neck-in-hospital-setting-photo-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/doctor-examining-patient-s-neck-in-hospital-setting-photo-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/doctor-examining-patient-s-neck-in-hospital-setting-photo-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/doctor-examining-patient-s-neck-in-hospital-setting-photo-1-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/doctor-examining-patient-s-neck-in-hospital-setting-photo-1-1536x1023.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/doctor-examining-patient-s-neck-in-hospital-setting-photo-1.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>FAQ<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What is the difference between ordinary and gross negligence?<\/summary><p>Ordinary negligence is a failure to exercise reasonable care. Gross negligence is a reckless, conscious disregard for safety. The defendant knows a serious risk exists and deliberately ignores it. Gross negligence may support punitive damages; ordinary negligence does not.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I still recover damages if I am partially at fault?<\/summary><p>Yes. Under Florida law, you can recover if you are less than 50% at fault. Your award will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What damages can I recover in a negligence case?<\/summary><p>Compensatory damages cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and permanent disability costs. If gross negligence is proven, punitive damages may also be available to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How do I know which type of negligence applies to my injury?<\/summary><p>An attorney who focuses exclusively on catastrophic injuries can evaluate the facts of your situation. They review incident reports and prior complaints. They identify the applicable type of negligence and the strength of your claim.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What is negligent security?<\/summary><p>Negligent security occurs when a property owner fails to provide reasonable security measures\u2014working locks, adequate lighting, security cameras, or trained guards. That failure allows a violent crime (assault, robbery, shooting, sexual assault) to occur on the premises. The result is catastrophic injury to a visitor or resident.<\/p><\/details><hr \/>\n<p>If you or a loved one suffered a catastrophic injury on someone else&#8217;s property\u2014whether from an assault, a truck accident, or another incident caused by someone else&#8217;s carelessness\u2014understanding which type of negligence applies is the first step.<\/p>\n<p>It helps you know whether you have a claim and what you may recover.<\/p><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Contact us for a free case evaluation.<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We focus exclusively on catastrophic injury claims and can help you understand your rights and next steps.<\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free case evaluation<\/a><\/p><\/details><\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>This is attorney advertising. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome, and contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">The Three Types of Negligence<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ordinary Negligence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Someone fails to act with reasonable care, and that failure causes your injury. For example, a truck driver texting while driving, or a property owner failing to repair a dangerous condition. You must prove they owed you a duty of care, breached it, and that breach directly caused your catastrophic injury.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Gross Negligence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The at-fault party&#x27;s conduct goes far beyond ordinary carelessness\u2014it shows a reckless disregard for your safety. Examples include a drunk driver, a property owner who ignores repeated security failures leading to violent crime, or a rideshare company with known safety defects. Gross negligence can open the door to punitive damages.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Comparative Negligence<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Florida law recognizes that sometimes both parties share responsibility. If you are found partly at fault, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault\u2014but only if you are less than 50% responsible. Understanding how this applies to your situation is critical.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Want to know where you stand?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tell us what happened and our team will walk you through the options available to you, at no cost.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Get a free review<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free review<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Why This Matters to Your Claim<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Determines Your Right to Recover<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Negligence is the legal foundation of your claim. Without proving one of these types, you cannot recover damages\u2014no matter how severe your injury.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--lightbulb\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Affects the Damages You Can Seek<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ordinary negligence covers economic and non-economic damages. Gross negligence may also allow punitive damages, which punish reckless conduct and deter future harm.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shapes Your Legal Strategy<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding which type applies to your accident\u2014whether it&#x27;s a truck crash, negligent security failure, or catastrophic injury from another cause\u2014guides how we build and present your case.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--info\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Influences Settlement and Trial Value<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The strength of the negligence claim, and whether gross negligence is involved, affects how the at-fault party and their insurers evaluate your case.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,#900000);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Negligence Is Not Automatic<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just because you were injured does not mean someone is legally negligent. You must prove the specific elements of negligence that apply to your situation. This requires investigation, evidence, and often expert testimony\u2014especially in catastrophic injury cases.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Let Us Investigate Your Case<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Let Us Investigate Your Case<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Ready to Understand Your Rights?<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/resources\/spinal-cord-injury\/\">Spinal Cord Injuries: A Guide for Victims and Families Facing Paralysis<\/a><\/li><\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn the three types of negligence\u2014ordinary, gross, and comparative\u2014and how they apply to catastrophic injury claims. Understand your legal options.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":104,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[{\"hreflang\": \"en\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/negligent-security-injury-lawyer\/what-are-the-three-types-of-negligence\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"es\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/es\/abogado-lesion-seguridad-negligente\/tres-tipos-negligencia\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"x-default\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/negligent-security-injury-lawyer\/what-are-the-three-types-of-negligence\/\"}]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"mainEntity\": [{\"name\": \"What are the three types of negligence?\", \"@type\": \"Question\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"text\": \"The three types of negligence are ordinary negligence (failure to exercise reasonable care), gross negligence (reckless disregard for safety), and comparative negligence (shared fault between parties).\", \"@type\": \"Answer\"}}, {\"name\": \"How does ordinary negligence differ from gross negligence?\", \"@type\": \"Question\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"text\": \"Ordinary negligence involves a breach of the duty to exercise reasonable care, while gross negligence involves a conscious, reckless disregard for the safety of others.\", \"@type\": \"Answer\"}}, {\"name\": \"What is comparative negligence?\", \"@type\": \"Question\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"text\": \"Comparative negligence allows courts to assign fault percentages to multiple parties, potentially reducing damages based on the plaintiff's degree of fault.\", \"@type\": \"Answer\"}}], \"about\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Spinal cord injury\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Spinal_cord_injury\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Paraplegia\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Paraplegia\"}], \"mentions\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Paralysis\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Paralysis\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Spinal cord\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Spinal_cord\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Personal injury\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Personal_injury\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Statute of limitations\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Statute_of_limitations\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Comparative negligence\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Comparative_negligence\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Traumatic brain injury\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Traumatic_brain_injury\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Amputation\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amputation\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Burn\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Burn\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Premises liability\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Premises_liability\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Duty of care\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q1144694\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Breach of duty\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q105681962\"}], \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Igor Hernandez\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/spinaladvocacygroup.com\/attorneys\/igor-hernandez\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/directories\/find-mbr\/profile\/?num=106386\", \"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/igorh\/\", \"https:\/\/profiles.superlawyers.com\/florida\/miami\/lawyer\/igor-hernandez\/cd5f52fd-6cf1-4c47-8c6e-5e8f339a380d.html\"]}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"name\": \"CHG Personal Injury Lawyers\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Igor Hernandez\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/spinaladvocacygroup.com\/attorneys\/igor-hernandez\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/directories\/find-mbr\/profile\/?num=106386\", \"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/igorh\/\", \"https:\/\/profiles.superlawyers.com\/florida\/miami\/lawyer\/igor-hernandez\/cd5f52fd-6cf1-4c47-8c6e-5e8f339a380d.html\"]}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"image\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-in-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-determination-afte-photo.jpg\", \"headline\": \"What Are the Three Types of Negligence in Injury\", \"description\": \"Learn the three types of negligence\u2014ordinary, gross, and comparative\u2014and how they apply to catastrophic injury claims. 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