Legal Definitions - willful and wanton misconduct

Willful and wanton misconduct refers to behavior that is intentional and reckless, showing a complete disregard for the safety and well-being of others. It is a type of misconduct that goes beyond mere negligence.

For example, if a driver is speeding and weaving in and out of traffic, they are engaging in willful and wanton misconduct. This behavior is not only intentional but also reckless, putting other drivers and pedestrians at risk.

Another example of willful and wanton misconduct is when a company knowingly produces and sells a defective product that can cause harm to consumers. This behavior is intentional and shows a complete disregard for the safety of the people who use the product.

Willful blindness is another form of willful and wanton misconduct. This occurs when a person deliberately avoids knowledge of a crime, even though they are aware that it is highly probable. For example, if a person is paid by a known drug dealer to deliver an unmarked package but deliberately refuses to look inside, they are engaging in willful blindness. This behavior creates an inference of knowledge of the crime in question.