Let’s say someone I know ends up in a life threatening situation, and I am the only one around, but I do not help, and this person dies. Would I be in any legal trouble?
2007-01-16 10:40:04 · 9 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
you would be in more legal trouble if u help them and they die ... and the family sues u ...
2007-01-16 10:47:25 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most of the time, none of us has any duty to rescue or come to anyone's aide at any time. You could theoretically, watch a child drown in a 1 foot deep puddle and you are not liable criminally, civilly or any other way except for morally. However, once you begin the process of aiding another, you cannot abandon unless your life in endangered or you could become liable.
A duty does exist between several "classes" of individuals that are "created by contract" such as doctors (only in their line of work, not while they are vacationing in Florida, then there is no duty) police officers on duty, fire fighters and EMT's etc. Also, parents do have a duty to their children at any time, as do child care providers or anyone else who "contracts" to care for another person.
2007-01-16 18:53:47 · answer #2 · answered by nukehoop 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Maritime law,you are obligated to help someone in distress.On land,I couldn't stand and watch someone assault someone else or watch a rape taking place.Like I've heard of in NYC.I think the attacker would find a 2x4 up side of his head quick.
2007-01-16 19:37:19 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
yeah. it's called the "good samaritan" law. most countries have something pretty simlar to it, though the rules are slightly different. in america, i think the states dictate what the penalties are but the general guidelines remain the same.
but the penalties are not as drastic as some would think. most states impose a $500-$1000 fine. i dunno if any states impose jail time, but it seems highly unlikely.
2007-01-16 18:56:50 · answer #4 · answered by eveningdin 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Depends on the state, some have samaritan laws.
2007-01-16 18:48:31 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
it depends entirely on the situation. but you would definitely be treated like the scum you were if you could have helped and didn't even call 911
2007-01-16 18:48:44 · answer #6 · answered by judy_r8 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That depends where you live. In some states yes, in some states no.
2007-01-16 18:47:30 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it is called the good Samaritan act.
2007-01-16 18:48:40 · answer #8 · answered by biancajh 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Uhm I dunno but you should be.
2007-01-16 19:14:39 · answer #9 · answered by Bridget 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋