Define ‘civil liability’ in the context of traffic crashes.

In the context of traffic crashes, 'civil liability' refers to the legal responsibility that an individual or entity has for causing harm to another through negligent actions. This responsibility arises when an individual's behavior, which falls below the expected standard of care, leads to damages or injuries resulting from a traffic crash.

When a person is found to have acted negligently—meaning they failed to act as a reasonable person would under similar circumstances—they may be required to compensate the injured party for their losses. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other related costs. Civil liability is focused on providing remedies to those harmed rather than punishing wrongdoers, emphasizing the need for accountability in situations where negligence causes harm.

Other options do not encapsulate the core principle of civil liability. Protection against reckless behavior and accountability for violations focus more on prevention and enforcement rather than the responsibility to compensate for damages caused. Similarly, financial compensation for car repairs, while related to the aftermath of a crash, does not encompass the broader legal principle of liability arising from actions that lead to the accident.