Simple Negligence Law and Legal Definition
Simple negligence means negligence which is neither gross nor wanton. It means the failure to use ordinary care. It differs from gross negligence in degree, but not in kind. For instance, a guest injured while riding in his/her host's automobile cannot recover for simple negligence in its operation, but, if s/he has not contributed to the injury by carelessness on his/her own part, may recover for gross negligence. [SEMONS v. TOWNE, 285 Mass. 96 (Mass. 1934)]
