How is "negligence" defined in Louisiana civil cases?

In Louisiana civil cases, "negligence" is defined as the failure to exercise reasonable care, which directly corresponds to the answer provided. This concept is foundational in tort law and involves a scenario where an individual's conduct falls short of the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise under similar circumstances. This lack of care can lead to unintentional harm or injury to others, making it crucial to establish whether the defendant acted reasonably in order to determine liability.

The legal framework surrounding negligence emphasizes that it is not about intent but rather about the actions—or lack thereof—of a person. In cases of negligence, the focus is placed on the standard of care expected and whether the defendant failed to meet that standard, thus resulting in damage or injury.

In contrast, the other answer choices refer to different legal concepts. Intentional harm pertains to torts that are committed with purpose or malice, while the use of reasonable care does not capture the essence of negligence itself but rather describes the behavior expected of individuals to avoid negligence. A contractual breach involves a violation of a contractual agreement, which is entirely separate from the concept of negligence in tort law. Understanding the distinction between these concepts is key to mastering Louisiana civil procedure and navigating the nuances of tort cases.