The Pros And Cons Of Good Samaritan Laws

I wish more people knew that under Good Samaritan Laws, voluntary rescuers are legally protected when aiding those in sudden cardiac arrest distress. Before becoming a certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), I was completely unaware of the Good Samaritan Laws. In fact, I fallaciously believed that medical equipment such as an AED could only be handled by medical professionals. The widespread lack of awareness of Good Samaritan Laws prevents many from assisting in a sudden cardiac arrest situation.

The fear of lawsuits may deter individuals from providing assistance in a cardiac arrest related emergency. Andrew Roszak of the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation recognizes this concern as he states “liability is often perceived as a barrier