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An urban bus operator, a common carrier, runs a fixed route through Metro City. Mid-journey, the bus experiences a brake-control failure attributed to a faulty electronic brake control unit (EBCU) installed by an independent maintenance contractor. The maintenance team had warned that the EBCU should be replaced but management postponed due to budget constraints. The bus collides with a vehicle, injuring a passenger. The operator contends it is not liable because the defect originated in a third-party component and was beyond its control. (a) Identify the doctrine governing the carrier's duty toward passengers and the standard of care. (b) State who bears the burden of proof and what defenses are available to the carrier. (c) Apply to the facts: is the operator liable for damages? Explain briefly.