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Emergencies happen unexpectedly; at home, in public places, at work, or while traveling. When someone nearby is injured, ill, or in danger, many people want to help, but hesitate out of fear of being sued if something goes wrong.
That’s exactly why Good Samaritan laws exist.
In California, the Good Samaritan Act (Health & Safety Code 1799.102) is designed to protect people who step in to help during an emergency. This article explains what the law covers, who is protected, and what it means for everyday people who want to do the right thing.
What is the California Good Samaritan Act?
The California Good Samaritan Act limits the legal liability of individuals who provide emergency care or assistance voluntarily, in good faith, and without compensation at the scene of an emergency.
In simple terms, it means:
If you try to help someone during an emergency and you’re not being paid to do so, California law generally protects you from being sued, as long as you act responsibly and don’t behave recklessly or intentionally cause harm.
The goal of the law is to encourage people to help in emergencies rather than stand by out of fear of legal consequences.
Who is Protected Under the Law?
The law recognizes two broad groups:
1. Medical, Law Enforcement, and Emergency Personnel
Certain licensed or trained professionals (such as paramedics, firefighters, and other emergency responders) have specific protections under subdivision (a) of the law when they render emergency care in good faith and without compensation at the scene of an emergency.
Their existing professional liability protections are not removed or reduced by this law.
2. Members of the Public (Bystanders and Volunteers)
Subdivision (b) extends protection to ordinary individuals (people who are not professional responders) who voluntarily assist during an emergency.
You are protected if you:
- Act in good faith (you genuinely intend to help),
- Are not compensated for helping,
- Provide care or assistance at the scene of an emergency, and
- Do not act with:
- Gross negligence, or
- Willful or wanton misconduct.
Are You Ready to Save a Life?
What is Considered an “Emergency”?
The law applies to situations where immediate assistance is needed due to sudden illness, injury, or danger. For example:
- Someone collapses in a public place
- A person is choking
- A serious injury occurs after a fall or accident
- A person is in medical distress after a collision or disaster
However, the scene of an emergency does NOT include places where medical care is normally provided, such as:
- Hospitals
- Emergency departments
- Clinics or medical offices
What is “Gross Negligence” or “Willful Misconduct”?
The law does not protect someone who acts irresponsibly or recklessly.
Examples of behavior that could remove legal protection include:
- Performing actions far beyond your level of training or knowledge
- Ignoring obvious risks
- Intentionally harming someone
- Acting in a way that is clearly unsafe or unreasonable under the circumstances
In contrast, making a reasonable mistake while trying to help is not gross negligence.
Does the Law Require You to Help?
No. California law does not generally require bystanders to intervene in emergencies.
However, if you choose to help, the Good Samaritan Act is there to reduce the legal risk of doing so, encouraging people to act rather than hesitate.
Why This Law Matters
Without Good Samaritan protections, many people would avoid helping due to fear of lawsuits. This could delay lifesaving care in critical moments before emergency services arrive.
The law:
- Encourages community responsibility,
- Supports quick response during emergencies,
- Helps ensure people in distress are not left without help,
- Protects those who act compassionately and responsibly.
How First Aid & CPR Training Fits In
Although the law protects people who act in good faith, having proper training makes you respond safer, more effective, and less likely to cross into negligence.
First Aid and CPR training helps you:
- Recognize true medical emergencies
- Know what actions are appropriate and safe
- Provide care within your level of training
- Avoid harmful mistakes
- Feel confident stepping in when someone needs help
Training doesn’t just protect the person in need, it also protects you by ensuring your actions are reasonable and responsible.
Where to Get First Aid & CPR Training in California
If you live in Los Angeles or Long Beach (or nearby areas), Coast2Coast First Aid & Safety offers American Red Cross First Aid & CPR training courses near you. You can choose between an online blended format or an all-in-class format, making it easy for you to get certified in just a few hours!
What This Means for You
The California Good Samaritan Act exists to support people who choose to help others in emergencies, not punish them for trying to do the right thing. When you act in good faith, without compensation, and within your level of training, the law is designed to protect you from legal liability. Understanding these protections and taking the time to learn basic first aid and CPR, gives you the confidence to step in when someone needs help and ensures that your response is both responsible and effective.
Be the Person Who Steps Up
Your knowledge of First Aid and CPR can save a life. Act within your understanding and stay safe with the California Good Samaritan Act.
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