Which of the following terms does proximate cause refer to?

Proximate cause refers to the primary cause of an injury or damage that is sufficiently connected to the event in a legal context. It emphasizes the relationship between the negligent act and the resulting injury, establishing that the injury would not have occurred "but for" the negligent action taken. In liability cases, proving proximate cause is essential because it directly links the defendant's actions to the plaintiff's harm.

In contrast, the other terms do not accurately capture the essence of proximate cause. Accidents that occur without warning relate more to unforeseen events and do not involve a direct link to negligence. Intentional acts resulting in damage imply a deliberate action rather than a negligent one and typically fall under different legal standards. Lastly, risk that has been calculated pertains to risk assessment and management rather than establishing a cause-and-effect relationship in the context of liability. Thus, identifying negligence that directly leads to an injury aligns with the definition of proximate cause.