What does gross negligence refer to?

Gross negligence refers to a significant lack of care that shows a blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of others. It is a step beyond ordinary negligence, which may involve minor lapses in judgment or oversights. In the context of gross negligence, it's characterized by a failure to provide even the minimal standard of care that is expected in a given situation.

In legal terms, gross negligence typically involves actions that are so careless that they could lead to serious harm or injury to others. This level of negligence can result in legal consequences because it demonstrates a conscious choice to neglect duties that could protect others, distinguishing it from merely making a mistake or a simple oversight. Hence, the option accurately captures the essence of gross negligence as a failure to meet a fundamental duty to ensure safety and care.