What must a bailee demonstrate if property is damaged while under their care?

The situation describes the obligations of a bailee when property is damaged while in their possession. A bailee is someone entrusted with someone else's property, and they have a duty to ensure its safety. If damage occurs, the bailee generally needs to show that they exercised proper care over the property.

In this context, demonstrating proof of proper care is essential because it establishes that the bailee acted responsibly and adhered to the standard of care that is expected in that situation. If the bailee can prove that they took all reasonable steps to protect the property, they may be absolved of liability for the damage that occurred.

The option regarding acts of God—natural events that are beyond human control—may apply in specific circumstances but does not encompass the foundational duty of care that the bailee must demonstrate. The focus should really be on the bailee's actions regarding the property, rather than potential external factors.

Thus, showing evidence of receipt of property or owner negligence does not fulfill the bailee’s obligation to demonstrate how they cared for the property during the time it was entrusted to them. The emphasis here is on the bailee’s responsibility to maintain a duty of care, making proof of proper care the most critical aspect when dealing with property damage.