Georgia § 51-1-2 - Ordinary diligence and ordinary negligence defined.
Full text of Georgia Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-1-2 — Ordinary diligence and ordinary negligence defined., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 51-1-2. Ordinary diligence and ordinary negligence defined.
In general, ordinary diligence is that degree of care which is exercised by ordinarily prudent persons under the same or similar circumstances. As applied to the preservation of property, the term "ordinary diligence" means that care which every prudent man takes of his own property of a similar nature. The absence of such diligence is termed ordinary negligence. (Orig. Code 1863, § 2034; Code 1868, § 2035; Code 1873, § 2061; Code 1882, § 2061; Civil Code 1895, § 2898; Civil Code 1910, § 3471; Code 1933, § 105-201.) History of section. - The language of this Code section is derived in part from the decision in Southern Ry. v. Hill, 139 Ga. 549 , 77 S.E. 803 (1891). Law reviews. - For article, "The Georgia Jury and Negligence: The View from the Bench," see 26 Ga. L. Rev. 85 (1992). For case note, "Lynch v. Waters: Tolling Georgia's Statute of Limitations for Medical Malpractice," see 38 Mercer L. Rev. 1493 (1987). For comment on Austin v. Smith, 96 Ga. App. 659 , 101 S.E.2d 169 (1958), concerning gross negligence in relation to gratuitous automobile guest, see 20 Ga. B. J. 552 (1958). For comment on Planter's Elec. Membership Corp. v. Burke, 98 Ga. App. 380 , 105 S.E.2d 787 (1958), see 22 Ga. B. J. 249 (1959). For comment on Thomas v. Shaw, 217 Ga. 688 , 124 S.E.2d 396 (1962), see 25 Ga. B. J. 221 (1962).
Source: official Georgia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Georgia § 51-1-2
What does Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-1-2 cover?
Section 51-1-2 ("Ordinary diligence and ordinary negligence defined.") is part of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, the codified statutory law of Georgia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Georgia § 51-1-2?
A common citation format is "Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 51-1-2" (Georgia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Georgia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Georgia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Georgia attorney.
How does Georgia § 51-1-2 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Georgia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Georgia.