DRIVER. One employed in conducting a coach, carriage, wagon, or other
vehicle, with horses, mules, or other animals.
2. Frequent accidents occur in consequence of the neglect or want of
skill of drivers of public stage coaches, for which the employers are
responsible.
3. The law requires that a driver should possess reasonable skill and
be of good habits for the journey; if, therefore, he is not acquainted with
the road he undertakes to drive; 3 Bingh. Rep. 314, 321; drives with reins
so loose that he cannot govern his horses; 2 Esp. R. 533; does not give
notice of any serious danger on the road; 1 Camp. R. 67; takes the wrong
side of the road; 4 Esp. R. 273; incautiously comes in collision with
another carriage; 1 Stark. R. 423; 1 Campb. R. 167; or does not exercise a
sound and reasonable discretion in travelling on the road, to avoid dangers
and difficulties, and any accident happens by which any passenger is
injured, both the driver and his employers will be responsible. 2 Stark. R.
37; 3 Engl. C. L. Rep. 233; 2 Esp. R. 533; 11. Mass. 57; 6 T. R. 659; 1
East, R. 106; 4 B. & A. 590; 6 Eng. C. L. R. 528; 2 Mc Lean, R. 157. Vide
Common carriers Negligence; Quasi Offence.