Good Samaritan Laws and Immunity

What are Good Samaritan laws?

Laws that protect people from liability when they reasonably help another person in good faith during an emergency.

What conditions must be met to be protected under Good Samaritan laws?

• Acted in good faith

• Provided care without expectation of compensation

• Acted within the scope of training

• Did not act in a grossly negligent manner

What is gross negligence?

Conduct showing willful or reckless disregard for a duty or standard of care.

Do immunity laws protect against gross negligence or willful misconduct?

No, immunity laws do not protect when injury or damage is caused by gross negligence or willful misconduct.

To whom do most immunity statutes apply?

EMS systems considered governmental agencies; sometimes partially to EMTs, physicians, and nurses giving emergency instructions.