What is defined as a direct chain of events resulting from a negligent act that causes injury or damage?

Proximate cause is a legal concept that establishes a direct connection between a negligent act and the resulting injury or damage. It is the primary factor that enables a party to be held liable for the consequences of their actions. To determine proximate cause, one must assess whether the injury would have occurred 'but for' the negligent act and whether it falls within a foreseeable range of consequences stemming from that act. The defining characteristic of proximate cause is that it outlines a clear and direct relationship between the wrongdoing and the harm suffered, essential for establishing liability in personal injury claims.

Choosing this option demonstrates an understanding of how the law correlates actions and their outcomes, which is pivotal in personal lines coverage and insurance claims. In contrast, other choices like negligent action, causation link, or contributory factor do not accurately encapsulate this specific legal principle. Negligent action refers to the act itself, while a causation link and contributory factor do not specifically address the direct relationship needed to establish liability in a legal context.