Understanding “Good Samaritan Law” in Car Accidents

California has a law known as the “Good Samaritan Law” that encourages people to help other people who are involved in car accidents. Many people want to help victims in such situations, but they worry that they will get into trouble. This law protects the helpers of accident victims legally, so people are more encouraged to lend a hand and not scared of being sued. 

Under this law, if you help someone at an emergency scene, you are protected from legal. This could involve giving first aid or calling an ambulance for them. But you should act in good faith and not try to obtain any personal benefit from them. If someone acts with extreme carelessness or intentionally causes harm, they could still be held responsible.

So, anyone who wants to help should act carefully. If you were recently in a car accident and you were injured while someone tried to help you, you have options. You may wonder whether you should sue a helper, but they should compensate for the injuries they have caused. In a complex situation like this one, it is smart to talk to an attorney from Saeedian Law Group

What does California law say about the “Good Samaritan Law”?

The Good Samaritan Law is a rule that protects people who step up to help others in emergencies. If you see someone hurt, sick, or in danger, this law ensures that you can offer help without worrying about being sued if something goes wrong. 

The main reason for the Good Samaritan Law is to make people feel safer about helping others. Sometimes, people want to help, but they do not because they do not want to get into legal trouble if things do not go the way they expect them to. By offering legal protection, the Good Samaritan Law makes it easier to do things like give CPR, perform first aid, or call 911. 

How the “Good Samaritan Law” applies to car accidents 

The Good Samaritan Law can make a huge difference in car accidents and even save people’s lives. The law may apply in the following situations:

1. Providing emergency medical help. 

The law protects people who try to offer emergency medical help, whether they are doctors or non-professionals. For example, if someone is not breathing, a bystander may offer CPR. Under the law, the helper will not be held liable if something unintended happens. Another example is putting pressure on a wound or using a tourniquet to stop bleeding. 

2. Helping people get out of trapped vehicles. 

It is not uncommon for car accident victims to remain trapped inside their vehicles due to the severe nature of the accident. If there is a chance that the vehicle will catch fire, a bystander may try to pull the victim out of the damaged car. If they cannot pull them out, they might stay with them and provide reassurance that help is on the way. 

3. Handling traffic for safety. 

Some car accidents take place in the middle of a busy road. If someone does not direct the oncoming traffic, it could lead to more collisions. A helper might wave to oncoming vehicles to indicate the crash site and avoid further accidents. 

Limitations of the Good Samaritan Law

Even if one wants to help in an accident, one should act in good faith. The Good Samaritan Law does not protect individuals who act with gross negligence or recklessness. For example, if someone is trying to pull someone out of a damaged car, they should not do it in a manner that might cause even more injuries. 

Were you injured while getting help?

If you were in a car accident and you were injured while someone was trying to help you, you do not have to pay for your injuries. You can hold the party accountable for their actions if they were negligent. Hire an attorney to know your options today!

Similar Posts