What type of negligence is described by an extreme and reckless disregard for consequences?

The term that best fits the description of an extreme and reckless disregard for consequences is gross negligence. Gross negligence refers to a significant lapse in the duty of care, going beyond mere inadvertence or mistake. It indicates a blatant disregard for the safety and reasonable care expected in a given situation.

In the context of negligence, while simple negligence involves failing to act with the care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise, gross negligence escalates this concept. It embodies actions or omissions that are so careless they demonstrate a disregard for the safety and welfare of others. This form of negligence may lead to serious harm or injury and is often viewed more sternly in legal proceedings.

The other types of negligence presented don’t convey the same level of severity. Simple negligence indicates a lesser level of carelessness, while moderate negligence suggests a middle ground that doesn’t reach the heightened awareness of risk seen in gross negligence. Intentional negligence, on the other hand, implies a deliberate intention to cause harm, which is fundamentally different from negligence based on carelessness. Therefore, gross negligence is rightly identified as the correct answer due to its association with extreme recklessness and disregard for the consequences of one's actions.