What does the Good Samaritan statute in Georgia provide?

The Good Samaritan statute in Georgia provides important legal protection for individuals who render emergency care to those in need, as long as they do so in good faith. This statute encourages bystanders to provide assistance in emergency situations without the fear of being sued for unintentional harm that may occur while helping. The emphasis on "good faith" reinforces that the person must act with the intention of helping and not for ulterior motives.

This statute is designed to promote altruism and support civic responsibility, recognizing that in critical moments, quick action can save lives, and individuals should not be deterred by the potential of legal consequences. Therefore, those who attempt to assist in emergencies—whether by performing CPR, providing first aid, or calling for help—are given protection under the law, provided they are acting reasonably and without gross negligence.

Other options, while related to the general principle of protecting individuals in emergency situations, do not accurately capture the intent and specifics of the Georgia Good Samaritan statute. For example, the idea of protection for individuals who cause harm while helping does not align with the statute’s purpose, which focuses on good-faith assistance rather than providing blanket immunity for any actions taken during an effort to help.