Is there a difference between negligence and recklessness?

In short, yes. The legal difference between an act of negligence and an act of recklessness is one of intention. If someone knowingly endangers another person’s health and safety, often also breaking a law in the process, they may be sued for recklessly causing an injury. In cases involving reckless conduct, the injured party involved may be able to collect punitive fines in addition to other forms of compensation if their claim is successful. Negligence, on the other hand, is failing to safely conduct oneself or provide a safe environment for others, but not necessarily intentionally.