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Comment by PeterisP | Hacker News Reader

If you stumble on my laptop while taking a step backwards in a public space, you definitely are responsible for it; why wouldn't you be responsible for your movements hitting other people or their property?

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Because reclining the chair is using it in a predictable way and as it was intended to be used. It's a bit like laying your laptop in the middle of the freeway and then claiming people can't run it over.

I don't understand your argument. If I place my laptop on the tray, aren't I using the tray in a predictable way in line with its intended purpose (i.e. to hold things)? Does your assertion that the 'reclining chair being reclined is its intended use' not apply to 'the tray holding things is its intended use'?

My lap isn't the middle of a freeway - accidentally smashing it by reclining is exactly as if accidentally smashing something from a shelf with your elbow while walking; you should be looking where you're going and are responsible for the direct consequences of your actions.

No, that's not necessarily true. If you have placed your laptop on the floor in the public space, then you haven't taken reasonable precautions and you'll have to pay for your laptop.

Yes, of course - but if it's in my lap and you walk (or recline) without looking and cause damage, then you haven't taken reasonable precautions.

I, uh, I am? I've never seen an instance where someone had to pay money for damaging a laptop by stepping on it by accident.

Yes. You'd be responsible for crashing into someone's car by accident, same principle.

Walking backwards != reclining in an airline chair.

Also, good luck getting me to pay you for your laptop if I step on it.

"Definitely" says who? Why is your laptop on the floor?

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