What defines negligence in legal terms?

Negligence in legal terms is defined as the failure to exercise the level of care that a reasonable person would exercise in similar circumstances, which results in harm or injury to another party. This concept is grounded in the principle that individuals have a duty to act (or refrain from acting) in a manner that does not cause harm to others. When this duty is breached, and such a breach directly leads to injury or damage, negligence is established.

The answer reflects this understanding by highlighting the aspect of failing to exercise proper care. It encapsulates the critical elements of negligence: the presence of a duty of care, a breach of that duty, and resultant injury. This is essential for establishing liability in civil cases where someone seeks compensation for damages.

In contrast, the other options address different legal concepts. An intentional act of causing harm pertains to torts like assault or battery, where the person's aim is to inflict harm. Restraining someone's freedom of movement relates to false imprisonment or similar wrongful acts, which involve intentionality. Lastly, the responsibility for keeping another person's property safe speaks to duties related to bailments or landlord-tenant relationships but does not encapsulate the broader legal definition of negligence. Thus, the correct answer provides a precise understanding of the negligence