Am I liable for the person's lost valuables after helping them?

Full question:

I helped a person who broke his arm in an accident. I called an ambulance and took him to the hospital. This person has recovered from his injury. However, he is demanding compensation from me for leaving behind his wallet and other valuables. He says he has lost a lot of money due to my negligence. Am I liable for his loss?

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

Answer:

No, you are not liable for any losses that occurred while you were helping this person. You acted in good faith by calling an ambulance and taking him to the hospital for treatment of his broken arm. The Good Samaritan law protects individuals who assist others in emergencies from civil liability, unless gross negligence can be proven. In Mississippi, you can rely on this protection (Miss. Code Ann. § 73-25-37).

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

Yes, a broken arm is generally considered an emergency. It can involve significant pain, potential complications, and the need for immediate medical attention. If you suspect someone has a broken arm, it's important to call for help right away.