Can the person I rescued sue me for injuries sustained?

Full question:

I saw somebody fall into a ditch. Immediately, I took a rope and somehow tied it to his hand and pulled him up. He sustained some injuries while doing this. Can he sue me for the injuries?

  • Category: Helping People
  • Subcategory: Good Samaritan Laws
  • Date:
  • State: Ohio

Answer:

No, he cannot sue you for those injuries. Since you helped him in an emergency situation and acted in good faith, you are immune from civil damages that may have occurred during the rescue. The Ohio Good Samaritan law provides immunity for individuals who administer emergency care at the scene of an emergency, as long as their actions do not constitute willful or wanton misconduct. This immunity applies to anyone providing assistance in emergencies, including volunteers and professionals, as long as they are not expecting compensation for their help (ORC Ann. § 2305.23).

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Good Samaritan laws exist in all states, but the specifics can vary. Each state has its own provisions regarding the protection offered to individuals who assist in emergencies. It's essential to understand the laws in your state to know your rights and responsibilities when providing help in such situations.