Every state usually has a law that protects medical professionals who assist in an emergency. These laws are called good Samaritan laws because they protect you when you are doing a good deed to help someone else without working in a professional capacity. There are certain points to such laws that are important to understand, specifically the law as it is in Georgia.
The Georgia Code explains the state’s so-called Good Samaritan law applies only to you if you are not charging a fee for your services. If you are simply offering your services out of good faith and in the heat of the moment without expecting anything in return, then the law covers you.
It is also important to note that this law also only protects you if you have a license to practice medicine. You need to be a medical professional of some type, whether that is a doctor, nurse, or emergency technician.
Finally, the situation needs to be an emergency. For example, if you come upon an accident and assist with the victims, then this would qualify as an emergency. Another good example is providing the Heimlich maneuver to someone who is choking.
The law goes on to say that you have protection against liabilities from the services you offer if you meet all these criteria. This means that the person you helped or the person’s family cannot sue you for death or injury arising from the situation. It also covers you against having to follow up or ensure the person gets additional care after your initial involvement. This information is for education and is not legal advice.
