Did you know... that California has a Good Samaritan law?
Saving lives with the help of Good Samaritan bystanders!
The San Francisco City Attorney’s Office is excited to be spearheading the Local Lifesavers initiative, a community outreach program designed to increase public awareness of California’s Good Samaritan Law, and to engage bystanders in providing care in the event of an emergency. Often, the fastest and most effective lifesaving response can be given by someone nearby, even before EMTs or paramedics arrive on the scene.
For medical emergencies in which every second counts, the ability to respond promptly can save lives. Unfortunately, bystanders may sometimes hesitate to respond to emergencies because they feel unprepared, or fear that they’ll be held legally responsible if their emergency aid fails. That’s why training programs like BOLT are so important—and it’s also why we must educate the public about California’s Good Samaritan Law, which protects those who provide care in the event of an emergency from civil liability.
The California Legislature enacted the Good Samaritan Law, Health and Safety Code 1799.102, to provide that individuals who in good faith, and not for compensation, render emergency medical or nonmedical care or assistance at the scene of an emergency generally shall not be liable for any civil damages resulting from any act or omission.
We hope that you will join us in our efforts to make Local Lifesavers a success here in San Francisco!
