Book Opener

gets to the destination between one and two hours late, the passenger isentitled to a cash payment of up to $200. This amount is doubled if thepassenger is more than two hours late. Instead of cash payment, airlinesmay offer free or reduced-rate air transportation, as long as this rateequals or exceeds the cash payment requirement. Passengers may refuseall compensation and bring private legal action instead.Passengers’ Baggage Carriers are obligated to accept a reasonableamount of passengers’ baggage. Luggage carried aboard an airliner andkept at one’s seat does not generally count toward the weight limits permittedeach passenger, and you may ship excess baggage by payingadditional fees.A carrier is an insurer of all luggage that is checked through thebaggage desk. However, a carrier is not responsible for items that youkeep at your seat or in overhead compartments.Federal rules place limits on the liability of airlines for lost luggage.For travel within the U.S., the maximum liability is $2,500 per passenger.Excess valuation may be declared on certain types of articles.However, some carriers assume no liability for fragile, valuable, orperishable articles.Reviewing What You Learned1. What is a bailment? Who is the bailor, andwho is the bailee?2. Name the three main types of bailments.3. Who has the burden of proof in a bailmentlawsuit?4. What are the hotel keepers’ duties of care totheir guests?5. Common carriers are liable for damages togoods unless the damage comes within oneof five exceptions. Name the exceptions.6. When does a carrier’s duty of care to itspassengers end?Critical Thinking ActivityLiving Bailments The agricultural class atyour school raises small animals such ashamsters, rabbits, and guinea pigs. Everyweekend several students take the animalshome to feed them. Is this a bailment? Whatis the extent of care that applies? Explainyour answer.Legal Skills in ActionAirline Responsibilities Airlines face a publicrelations nightmare almost every day. Planestake off late, flights are cancelled, and luggageis lost. Most people don’t realize that commoncarriers have rules they follow regarding thetransportation of passengers. Using publishingsoftware, create a brochure that outlines theairline’s responsibilities and exceptions. Includeinformation about bumping and baggage.Chapter 17: Personal Property and Bailments 379