How does negligence differ from a Tort?

Negligence is indeed a subset of tort law, but it is important to understand that it does not encompass all types of torts. Tort law is a broad area of legal practice that encompasses various wrongful acts, which can include intentional wrongs, strict liability, and negligence. While negligence specifically involves a failure to exercise reasonable care that results in harm, other torts may arise from intentional actions, such as assault or defamation, which do not require any negligence to establish liability.

Since not every tort involves negligence, this distinction is critical. For example, if someone intentionally trespasses on another person's property causing damage, that would be a tort (specifically, trespassing) but not an example of negligence, which focuses on a lack of due care. Thus, understanding this differentiation enhances comprehension of tort law and better equips individuals to analyze situations involving civil wrongs.