The responsibility of a rescuer
In life, whether we are a certified rescuer or not, we are required to act as a good Samaritan and to help a person in distress. Our society is framed by a series of laws on the subject that leads us to carry certain actions. This article will aim to inform you more about the responsibilities of all on this subject.
Am I obliged to help?
In most cases, you must rescue a victim in need. The law asks you to help another person whose life is at risk, to the best of your abilities. This means you have to stop if you see an accident or help a person collapse in front of you on the sidewalk.
For example, if you encounter a person suffering from heart failure, it is your duty to call an ambulance and accompany the person until the arrival of the rescue. In the scenario where the person stops breathing, and you have the knowledge to perform CPR, you will have to do it.
However, you are not required to provide assistance in situations where there is a danger to your life. For example, if you do not know how to swim, you will not be asked to go and rescue someone in the water. You will still need to call for help and take steps to help the person, even if you do not jump into the water.
If my intervention causes damage, can I be prosecuted?
The law provides that a person can not be held liable for damages caused by his actions when he tries to help. This defense is called the "good Samaritan" rule. If you break a rib at the victim by doing a heart massage, you will not be held responsible for this action.
However, this defense can not be used if the person intentionally harmed the victim or if the conduct was careless and because of the harm to others.
Provided by: Educaloi
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