Are people with CPR certification legally obligated to render aid?

Question

If yes, is there any legislation that defines that obligation?

Answer 1

We used to have an EMT live next to us. He was telling us about this bad accident that he stopped at one time while he was off duty. We asked him why he stopped if he was off duty and there was help on the scene. He said that as an EMT, he's required to stop at all situations where his help might be needed. He never explained more, but maybe it depends on where you live and such.

Answer 2

Generally, no. There are very few states that have any sort of required aid, even with a CPR certification, namely because of the legal ramifications for beginning to aid but either stopping or failing, which leads to the next part of the answer: If you have begun to aid, you are required to finish it, typically, or assist in obtaining another's aid. You also may not act to impede anyone else from aiding. Finally, if you caused the incident which caused harm, you must help in some way (if, for instance, you caused an accident, you must actively seek aid if the other party is injured.)

A few states have either civil or criminal punishments for failing to aid if it is possible, but this is rare. Also, the typical punishment is very minimal, a hundred dollars or so (not jail-time, usually, as portrayed by the final Seinfeld episode.)

Answer 3

If that person takes a job for which that certification is required, then yes.

If they are out in public, then no.

In fact, offering aid to a person in public, reguardless of certification or training can lead to lawsuits. I always advise people to offer assistance to people only after confirming that there is no one better equiped to provide the aid. At a pool, always involve the available lifeguards or attendants first. Elsewhere, always inquire, as cliche as it sounds, about any doctors present. Dial 911, and if the opperator or other advisor suggest CPR, then attempt such measures.

Answer 4

I don't know that it is commonly pursued if you didn't administer aid unless you were a health care employee. I have however heard that not only can you get in trouble but if you perform the action and do it incorrectly you could get in trouble. I also think its different for each state. Your best bet would be to research local hospitals and find out if they have any literature about the classes and if they are tied in with any state or local laws.

Answer 5

Based on this article and the fact that even EMS personnel do NOT have a duty to stop, I would say mere CPR certification would not carry that burden.

Answer 6

If someone found out later that you Were CPR certified and you did nothing and that person died the family may sue you.If you kill a person or harm them during CPR the family may sue you.

Answer 7

no, you just cant get sued if you crack their ribs

Answer 8

No