What is the test for "gross negligence" in motor vehicle accident law?

Nova Scotia, Canada


The following excerpt is from Lownds v. Kentley, 1986 CanLII 3912 (NS SC):

The term "gross negligence" has been given various definitions by the courts over the years including "very great negligence". The test often applied was that formulated by Duff C.J.C. in McCulloch v. Murray, 1942 CanLII 44 (SCC), [1942] 2 D.L.R. 179 at p. 180, [1942] S.C.R. 141 at p. 145: All these phrases, gross negligence, wilful misconduct, wanton misconduct, imply conduct in which, if there is not conscious wrong doing, there is a very marked departure from the standards by which responsible and competent people in charge of motor cars habitually govern themselves.

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