Halachic Highlights

Question: Is a driver liable for damage caused by the car that he is driving? What about if he is riding in his self-driving car that damages?

Question: Is a person liable for deleting files from another person’s computer?

Short Answer: Yes, even if done accidentally, this is not considered “hezeik she’eino nikar” and therefore the deleter is liable.

Question: Is a guest who does not show up at a wedding that he said he would attend liable to the baal simchah for the cost of his meal?

Question: Does a child who breaks a window need to pay the owner when he reaches bar mitzvah?

Short Answer: No, he does not need to pay, according to many poskim, including the Shulchan Aruch. However, in many circumstances, it is “lifnim mi’shuras ha’din” (equitable and above the letter of the law) for him to pay when he gets older.

Damaged In My House

Question: Is a person liable for accidental damage that he causes to a person who enters his house without permission?

Short Answer: There is a dispute whether the homeowner is liable for accidental damage where he is aware of the trespasser. The Shulchan Aruch appears to hold that he is exempt from liability.

Question: Is a person liable to pay damages for torts performed when drunk?

Short Answer: Yes, a drunk is liable for damages. While there used to be a possible exception on Purim, many poskim severely limit this exemption nowadays.