Which scenario exemplifies negligent hiring?

Negligent hiring occurs when an employer fails to take reasonable care in hiring employees, which can lead to harm to others. The scenario that exemplifies negligent hiring is the employer's failure to conduct a proper reference check on an applicant. This action represents a lapse in due diligence, as the employer could miss critical information about the applicant's past behavior or qualifications that may predict future performance or risks. By not thoroughly vetting candidates, the employer might unintentionally put their employees, customers, or the business itself at risk for harm or liability.

Conducting reference checks is a standard practice to ensure that candidates have the necessary skills and a suitable background for the position they are applying for. When this step is overlooked, it can lead to hiring individuals who may not be fit for the role, ultimately resulting in negligent hiring claims if the new hire causes harm. Therefore, the failure to conduct these checks is a direct example of negligent hiring.