3.16.3: Negligence Torts

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Learning Objectives

Define a negligence tort and discuss the elements of a negligence claim.
Explain a contract and discuss the requirements of an enforceable contract.
Explain the concepts of respondeat superior and scope of employment and discuss their roles in an employment contract.

We can now get back to your role in this case, though doing so means first taking a closer look at further aspects of your roommate’s role. You and your roommate are being sued by the homeowner for a different type of tort—a negligence tort, which results not from intentional wrongdoing, but from carelessness. When he placed that can of paint at his feet, where he might easily dislodge it as he moved around the platform, your roommate allowed his conduct to fall below a certain standard of care—namely, the degree of care necessary to protect others from an unreasonable likelihood of harm.