Recklessness is generally categorized as actions that are a result of a willful disregard for the safety of others. This is true for all types of negligence law, whether it’s an auto accident, boat accident or premises liability claim. Careless operations are actions that aren’t considered prudent or reasonable. Both actions can potentially cause serious injuries, but recklessness can result in criminal first-degree misdemeanor charges whereas being carless through imprudence is a civil matter, not a criminal infraction. Reckless behavior is considered more serious and may leave the the at-fault person open to punitive damages.