What is the legal term for the responsibility one has to another due to negligence?

Liability refers specifically to the legal obligation one party has to another, particularly in cases of negligence. When a person or entity fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to another, they can be held liable for the damages incurred. This term encompasses not just the duty of care but also the legal consequences that arise when that duty is breached. In the context of negligence, liability signifies that the responsible party may be required to compensate the injured party for losses, which can include medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

The other terms, while related, do not capture the legal implications required in the context of negligence. "Obligation" and "responsibility" might refer to a moral or ethical context rather than a legal one. "Accountability" implies an obligation to report or justify actions, but it does not specifically denote the legal consequences related to negligence. Thus, liability is the most accurate term that reflects the legal responsibility for negligent actions.