Define: Good Samaritan Rule

Good Samaritan Rule
Good Samaritan Rule
Quick Summary of Good Samaritan Rule

The Good Samaritan rule, derived from the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan, refers to legal protections granted to individuals who provide assistance or aid to others in emergency situations. It encourages bystanders to intervene and help those in need without fear of facing legal liability for any unintended harm caused during the rescue attempt. These protections vary by jurisdiction but commonly shield individuals from being sued for negligence if their actions were performed in good faith and without expectation of compensation. The rule aims to promote public safety by removing legal barriers that might otherwise discourage bystanders from rendering aid during emergencies.

What is the dictionary definition of Good Samaritan Rule?
Dictionary Definition of Good Samaritan Rule
n. from a Biblical story, if a volunteer comes to the aid of an injured or ill person who is a stranger, the person giving the aid owes the stranger a duty of being reasonably careful. In some circumstances, negligence could result in a claim of negligent care if the injuries or illness were made worse by the volunteer's negligence. Thus, if Jack Goodguy sees a man lying by the road, a victim of a hit and run accident, and moves the injured man, resulting in a worsening of the injury or a new injury, instead of calling for an ambulance, Goodguy may find himself on the wrong end of a lawsuit for millions of dollars.
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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.

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