13. Exceptions in Bills of Lading.—
In addition to perils of the sea, deviation and restraint of princes, which have already been mentioned, bills of lading frequently contain language designed to protect the carrier from liability for such things as damage due to breakage, leakage, heat, etc. Clauses of this kind will avail the carrier as a defense against suits for damages due to these causes provided the carrier is free from negligence. Inasmuch as these exceptions are in the nature of exemptions from a liability which is imposed by the policy of the law, the tendency of the courts is to interpret them with strictness against the carrier.
A provision in a bill of lading exempting the carrier from loss by theft will not relieve him from liability on account of a theft committed by a person in his employ, such as an officer of the vessel or a member of the crew.