Question

The standard of care to be taken by a bailee for the goods bailed is same as

• A. Owner takes care of his own goods
• B. Man of ordinary prudence takes care of his own goods
• C. Man of ordinary prudence is expected to take care of the goods of others
• D. Man of high prudence takes care of his own goods

Hint:

Bailee’s duty = ordinary prudence, not extraordinary care.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Relevant provision.
Section 151 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872 lays down the standard of care required from a bailee.
Step 2: Degree of care.
A bailee must take as much care of the goods bailed as a man of ordinary prudence would take of his own goods of the same bulk, quality, and value.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the correct standard is that of a man of ordinary prudence caring for his own goods. Hence, option (B) is correct.