Traveling long distances can get uncomfortable. Whether it’s by plane, train, or some other mode of transport, sitting with your legs cramped for hours on end can leave you less than happy by the time you reach your destination. It brings to light the age-old question: is it acceptable to recline your seat?
The debate is a hot topic—mostly dependent on whether you are the recliner, or the one being reclined on. But as a train commuter in China discovered the hard way, it may not be the best idea…
While traveling through Wuhan province, a university student had been using his recently-purchased laptop on the tray table provided on the seat in front of him. At one point, the man in front decided to recline his seat, breaking the computer screen.
Repairs for the laptop came to the equivalent of $685. The student decided to sue his fellow passenger for damages, with the matter being taken to the Xiangyin County People’s Court in Hunan.
According to the ruling, both men were at fault. The man in front (Mr. Liu) was assigned 70% of the blame for reclining his seat, but the student (Mr. Wang) was considered 30% responsible as he should have been more careful. Liu was thus ordered to pay 70% ($478) of the amount that he was being sued for.