Which of the following is an example of negligence?

Negligence is defined as a failure to exercise the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would in similar circumstances. This concept often involves a breach of a duty of care towards others, leading to unintentional harm or damage. In this context, the correct answer, which highlights a breach of the duty to act reasonably towards others, directly captures the essence of negligence.

For example, if a corrections officer fails to adequately supervise inmates, leading to an incident where a person is harmed, this would demonstrate negligence. It shows a lack of reasonable care in fulfilling their responsibilities.

The other choices reflect actions that do not align with the definition of negligence. Following all department protocols is indicative of responsibility and care, while deliberately violating a law suggests intentional wrongdoing, which is outside the realm of negligence. Claiming self-defense inappropriately also implies a deliberate choice to misrepresent a situation, indicating intent rather than negligence. Collectively, these alternatives underscore that negligence is characterized by unintentional acts that breach the obligation to act reasonably.