You are asked to participate in a court case

involving a bus passenger who claims to

have been injured when the bus came to an

abrupt stop. The passenger is suing the bus

company for the poor design of the overhead

luggage rack. Read the statements

presented by the bus company and the

passenger. Also review the diagram of the

luggage rack in relation to the seat where the

passenger was sitting.

Passenger (plaintiff):I was riding on the bus when the driver slammed on his breaks and the suitcase flew back off the luggage rack and hit me in the head! I've been dizzy and disoriented since the event and am seeking compensation (payment) for my injuries.

Bus Company (defendant):While driving in heavy traffic, the bus driver used the breaks rapidly to avoid debris in the road. Although this resulted in an abrupt stop and the suitcase did move, we do not believe that the suitcase in this situation could have injured the woman. Our drivers have used similar breaking force in other driving situations and we have not observed the luggage falling into the seating area.

Use your understanding of forces and motion to make and support a claim that will be presented to the jury. Because the jury is composed of both scientists and individuals who are less confident with science, your claim will need to be written in everyday language and supported usingreasoningandevidence.

QUESTION:SHOULD THE BUS COMPANY BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE INJURIES/PROBLEMS THE SUITCASE CAUSED?