Common Law

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Common law refers to a legal system based on judicial precedents and court decisions rather than solely on written statutes. In transportation and shipping, common law establishes carrier liability principles, defining responsibilities for cargo loss, damage, or delay. Under common law, carriers are typically liable for goods in their custody except in cases such as acts of God, public enemy, inherent vice, or shipper fault. Many transportation regulations evolved from common law doctrines, which continue to influence contracts, bills of lading, and liability standards worldwide.