Negligence

A woman in Guangzhou has been detained after allegedly throwing a suitcase from the 43rd floor of a building, claiming it was an accident. The incident highlights the dangers and legal consequences of throwing objects from heights, a prohibited act under Chinese law. It has sparked renewed calls for increased awareness, preventative measures, and stricter building safety protocols. The case underscores the need for residents to exercise caution and for property management to promote responsible behavior in high-density urban environments, emphasizing both physical safety and ethical considerations.

A recent “no-contact” traffic incident in Hubei, China, involving a scooter driver falling without colliding with a car, has sparked debate about liability. While the scooter driver was primarily responsible for violating traffic laws, the car driver (“YangYang”) received secondary responsibility for failing to yield, sparking controversy. Legal experts emphasize that liability in “no-contact” accidents depends on establishing a causal link between a party’s actions and the resulting damage, not necessarily physical contact. This case highlights the complexities of determining responsibility in such situations and the importance of demonstrating negligence.

A Chinese court rejected a lawsuit filed by a man seeking compensation after his mother tripped over another passenger’s luggage at a train station and later died. The court ruled that the woman, Ms. Wang, who was walking against the flow of traffic, was responsible for her own fall. Mr. Zhang, the passenger with the luggage, had no way to anticipate her actions and was not found negligent. The court cited the Civil Code of the People’s Republic of China in its decision.

In Anshan, China, a man’s unlocked Toyota was entered by three minors who stole the keys and subsequently his Mercedes-Benz. The abandoned Mercedes was recovered 100km away after running out of fuel. Two suspects, ages 13 and 14, have been apprehended. Due to their age, they may not face criminal charges, but the owner’s negligence in securing his vehicle could lead to partial liability. Insurance coverage is complicated by the owner’s negligence and legal limitations regarding minors’ responsibilities. The guardians may be responsible for compensation and care.