Helping at the Scene
R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-56-1 — a duty to give reasonable help when it is safe, and no liability for ordinary negligence
A duty to help. Anyone at the scene of an emergency who knows another person faces or has suffered grave physical harm gives reasonable assistance, so far as it can be done without danger to themselves or others.
Failing to do so is a petty misdemeanor: up to six months, up to $500, or both.
A person who gives emergency help voluntarily and without pay is not liable for civil damages from ordinary negligence, only for gross negligence or willful or wanton conduct.
A particular situation is a question for a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
Sources for this section (2)
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-56-1 — Duty to assist
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-27.1 — Good Samaritan; Immunity from liability
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Rhode Island attorney.