Good Samaritan Laws
Good Samaritan laws are enacted in most U.S. states to protect good Samaritans from litigation when they have provided first aid and/or basic care measures to someone who is injured or ill. Good Samaritan laws vary by region and it is always best to understand what the specifics are in your particular area. Good Samaritans are defined as people who help or assist the injured or ill in the event of an emergency and are NOT being compensated. People who volunteer to help should, and most of the time do have some level of protection from being sued. This should encourage bystanders to help, especially if there is a concern of legal problems.
Good Samaritan laws are not a licensed for bystanders to do whatever they want, and does not provide all inclusive protection in the event that the victim or their family decides to file legal action. Anyone can sue with or without a legitimate complaint. If applied appropriately, Good Samaritan laws would cause a dismissal of the case if the action was not legitimate. However, the world of litigation can be very tricky, and bystanders who decide to help should understand clearly why they are providing aid and be able to justify their actions. Never provide care to someone who is injured or ill unless you know exactly why you are doing what you are doing.
If you are doing CPR on someone, you need to know why you are doing it and not be shooting in the dark. If you are pulling someone out of a vehicle, you better have a very good reason for doing so. This can present a very strong argument and each individual will have to make their own decision if ever presented with the emergency circumstances.
It is extremely rare for a Good Samaritan who has provided care to be sued. Although lawsuits against Good Samaritans are a rare occurrence, witnesses who what to help the injured or ill should use good judgment to the best of their ability. A quality CPR/AED & First Aid class can teach basic life support skills to those who are interested in being prepared for emergencies. The education provides certification for a nominal fee, can build confidence, and may even save a life. If you are a Good Samaritan at heart, why not be a well prepared one? Contact is for training rates in your area.
Michael Morales EMT-Paramedic
For corporate training information
please contact us,
www.vitalethics@gmail.com
or click the link to see our CPR ACLS PALS Sacramento class calendar.
- Automated External Defibrillators
- Altered Mental Status
- Communicating With 911 Dispatchers
- First Aid Kit Essentials
- Good Samaritan Laws
- Natural Disaster Preparation
- Pediatric Chain or Survival: Prevention
- Pediatric Chain or Survival: Early CPR
- Pediatric Chain or Survival: Early Activation of EMS
- Pediatric Chain or Survival: Early Advanced Life Support