Which type of negligence involves failure to act or making a simple mistake that causes harm?

The answer is indeed focused on ordinary negligence, which is characterized by a failure to exercise the level of care that a reasonable person would under similar circumstances. This type of negligence often arises from simple mistakes or omissions that lead to unintended harm to another party.

For example, if a driver fails to stop at a red light because they were momentarily distracted, this could be classified as ordinary negligence if it results in an accident. The driver did not intend to cause harm but simply acted in a way that fell below the expected standard of care.

In contrast, gross negligence involves a more severe lack of care that shows a blatant disregard for the safety of others, indicating a higher level of wrongdoing. Criminal negligence usually involves actions that breach the law and warrant criminal charges due to the reckless conduct causing harm. Professional negligence pertains to a failure of a professional to meet the standards of their profession, often seen in areas like healthcare or legal practices, where specialized knowledge is expected.

Understanding the distinctions among these concepts is crucial for recognizing the varying degrees of negligence and their legal implications.