fahrlässig

Fahrlässig is a German adjective meaning negligent or careless, describing conduct that fails to meet the standard of care expected in a given situation. The term is used both in everyday language and in legal contexts to characterize actions that cause harm or risk due to lack of due care, rather than intentional wrongdoing (vorsätzlich).

Etymology: The form is built from the root related to driving or traveling (Fahrt/Fahren) with the suffix -lässig, indicating a manner or quality. The noun Fahrlässigkeit denotes carelessness or negligence, the state of not observing the required level of care.

In civil law, fault consists of Vorsatz (intent) or Fahrlässigkeit (negligence). Fahrlässigkeit is the failure to observe the standard of care that a prudent person would observe under the circumstances. It is commonly divided into leichte Fahrlässigkeit (ordinary negligence) and grobe Fahrlässigkeit (gross negligence). Liability for damages can arise when negligence causes harm; the applicable rules depend on the relationship between the parties and the relevant law. In some cases, negligence can also trigger criminal liability (for example in cases of fahrlässige Körperverletzung or fahrlässige Tötung), depending on severity and context.

In everyday language, someone who acts fahrlässig has acted carelessly or recklessly, often with preventable risk. Examples include negligent driving leading to an accident, medical errors due to insufficient care, or failing to implement required safety measures.