criminal negligence

Gross negligence so extreme that it is punishable as a crime. • For example, involuntary manslaughter or other negligent homicide can be based on criminal negligence, as when an extremely careless automobile driver kills someone. — Also termed culpable negligence; gross negligence. [Cases: Criminal Law 23; Negligence 1800–1802. C.J.S. Criminal Law § 38; Negligence §§ […]