Gross negligence is a legal term that refers to a lack of care that demonstrates reckless disregard for the safety or lives of others, which is so great it appears to be a conscious violation of other peoples rights to safety. It is a heightened degree of negligence representing an extreme departure from the ordinary standard of care. Gross negligence is considered more harmful than ordinary negligence because it implies a thoughtless disregard of the consequences and the failure to use even slight care to avoid harming the life or property of another. It is an act or omission that creates an unreasonable risk of harm to another because of the person’s failure to exercise slight care or diligence. Gross negligence is used as a standard for criminal law, for example, under manslaughter in English law. It is an act or omission that is more than ordinary negligence, but less than willful or intentional misconduct. A person who exhibits a high degree of reckless indifference departing from the ordinary standard of care is guilty of gross negligence. Gross negligence claims often result in higher award amounts.