If my baggage is lost or damaged by a common carrier, can I recover my losses?
A common carrier is generally liable for any loss, damage, or injury to property being transported by the carrier. It is now a general rule that a common carrier cannot excuse itself from liability by having the passenger enter into a contract exempting them from any liability. There are a few exceptions to this rule. For instance, in most states, the common carrier by agreement with the passenger may limit the amount recoverable for any losses or damages occurring during transport.