How is a "reasonable person" defined under Georgia law?

Under Georgia law, a "reasonable person" is defined as one who exercises ordinary diligence. This standard reflects the conduct that society expects from a typical person in similar circumstances. The concept of ordinary diligence requires individuals to act with a certain level of care that a prudent person would exercise in the same situation, ensuring they do not cause harm to others.

This definition focuses on the average person's ability to navigate everyday situations, rather than requiring specialized knowledge or skills. It emphasizes a baseline of care that is achievable by the general population, making it accessible for judges and juries to evaluate actions fairly and consistently.

By identifying the standard this way, it allows for flexibility in assessing behavior across various contexts, since what may be considered "reasonable" can shift slightly depending on the specific facts. However, it fundamentally revolves around the idea of taking reasonable precautions to avoid foreseeable harm, rather than requiring perfection or the elimination of all risk. This concept is critical in tort law, particularly in negligence cases, where establishing the failure to act as a reasonable person would be a key element.