What is the duty of care for common carriers or innkeepers?

Common carriers and innkeepers have a heightened duty of care towards their customers, which is characterized as the highest degree of care. This standard reflects the significant responsibility these entities have to ensure the safety and well-being of their passengers or guests. Common carriers, such as buses, trains, and airlines, are engaged in transporting people or goods for hire and are expected to take all necessary precautions to prevent harm. Similarly, innkeepers must provide safe accommodations and services to their guests.

This strict standard of care arises from the nature of their business, which places them in a position of trust and reliance on the part of their customers. Passengers and guests are often vulnerable and depend on these service providers to protect them from harm during their stay or journey. As a result, any failure to meet this heightened duty can result in liability for any injuries or damages that occur, unless the carrier or innkeeper can prove that the harm occurred due to an unavoidable accident or other extenuating factors.

In contrast, a general negligence standard, which is applicable in many other situations, requires a party to act as a reasonable person would under similar circumstances, while the highest degree of care requires more vigilance and proactive measures. This distinction illustrates why common carriers and innkeepers are held to