Florida Good Samaritan Law: Emergency Aid Immunity
Florida's Good Samaritan Act (§768.13) provides civil immunity for persons who voluntarily render emergency care. The law encourages bystander intervention by protecting rescuers from ordinary negligence liability.
Who Is Protected
- Ordinary citizens providing emergency first aid
- Off-duty physicians, nurses, and paramedics
- Hospital employees in emergencies outside their specialty
- Persons using AEDs in good faith
- Volunteer firefighters and rescue personnel
Requirements
- Acting voluntarily and in good faith
- Without expectation of compensation
- At the scene of an emergency or accident
- Providing reasonable emergency care
Limitations
No protection for gross negligence, willful misconduct, paid on-duty responders, hospital-based care, or situations where the person caused the emergency. Civil immunity only (not criminal).
Related Terms
- Contract — Liability waivers
- Equity — Equitable immunity principles
- Encumbrance — Property liability considerations
Barnes Walker Litigation
Barnes Walker's attorneys advise on Good Samaritan immunity and personal injury liability in Florida. Request a legal inquiry for assistance.
Reviewed by the attorneys at Barnes Walker, Goethe, Shea & Robinson, PLLC