Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1972
Source Publication
Alberta Law Review, 10(1), 89
Abstract
In the past, tort law has displayed reluctance to impose a duty to rescue or to compensate rescuers injured during a rescue attempt. Furthermore, tort liability has been imposed upon would-be rescuers whose incompetence has led to an abortive attempt. Professor Linden argues that this reluctance to promote rescue is out-dated in modern society which espouses humanitarian ideals. The author examines Canadian and English jurisprudence to demonstrate the recent recognition of the need to encourage and compensate Good Samaritans. New tort duties to render aid, which have been fashioned by analogy to criminal legislation, are analyzed as well as the rescuer's duty which arises once the rescue has been undertaken. Professor Linden also discusses the applicability of the principle of voluntary assumption of risk to rescuer's claim for compensation for injuries sustained during the course of the rescue. The author concludes by suggesting that the concept of contributory negligence be used to dissuade rash rescue attempts in place of the current judicial practice of complete denial of compensation.
Repository Citation
Linden, A. M. (1). Rescuers and Good Samaritans. Alberta Law Review, 10(1), 89. https://doi.org/10.29173/alr2438