A QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF LEGAL PROTECTION FOR GOOD SAMARITANS IN INDIA

Abstract

Good Samaritans is a person with good faith who voluntarily helps or give emergency care to the victims of road accidents. Considering the lifesaving potential of treatment within ‘Golden Hour’ (within an hour of accident), the role of bystanders/good Samaritans in ensuring timely treatment to road accident victims is vital. This research paper employs doctrinal research method to analyze the nexus between human right to life and health and role played by good Samaritans in protection of these rights by ensuring timely medical assistance to road accident victims. Author has also analyzed the law in India granting legal protection to good Samaritans so as to promote the help by bystanders to accident victims. Empirical method has also been applied to do a survey by employing online questionnaire tool to do an audit about awareness amongst the common citizens about Good Samaritan Law in India. Research has had its impact in increasing awareness as the 91.3% (147 out of 161) admitted that survey has helped them in increasing their knowledge about legal protection granted to Good Samaritans.