Sargee v. Clark Can Co.
Sargee v. Clark Can Co.
Dissenting Opinion
(dissenting). I am not satisfied that the record is wholly devoid of evidence tending to show negligence on the part of the defendant. I do not understand the rule which requires the plaintiff to affirmatively show negligence to go further than this: That it must be shown that the machinery of defendant was in a condition likely to produce injury to an employe before an employer can be made liable.
The present case is distinguished from Redmond v. Lumber Co., 96 Mich. 545 (55 N. W. 1004). In that case it was said:
“If there were anything to show that the machine had been out of order, and that its working was spasmodic or uncertain, there might be room for the contention that defendant was negligent in not keeping it in repair.”
There is some evidence of that character in the present record. I recognize that it is slight, but it is enough, in my judgment, to carry the case to the jury.
Opinion of the Court
(after stating the facts). No fault is found with the character or structure of the machine. These machines are in use and have been for many years, both in this country and in others. No claim is made that the defendant did not perform its full duty towards.
“When a servant demands from his master compensation for an injury received in his service, it is necessary that he trace some distinct fault to the master himself. The mere fact of such injury is no evidence of such fault.” The mere breaking of a piece of timber, in consequence of which one fell, was not evidence of negligence. Quincy Mining Co. v. Kitts, 42 Mich. 34 (3 N. W. 240). The failure of a machine to stop by a release of the lever through which its movement is controlled is not. evidence of negligence, where it worked satisfactorily before, Redmond v. Lumber Co., 96 Mich. 545 (55 N. W. 1004).
This case is not distinguishable from the above, and is ruled by them. The court should have directed a verdict for the defendant.
Judgment reversed, and new trial ordered.
Reference
- Full Case Name
- SARGEE v. CLARK CAN CO.
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- Published