What is required by Good Samaritan laws?

Good Samaritan laws are designed to encourage bystanders to assist those in emergency situations without fear of legal repercussions. The primary purpose of these laws is to provide legal protection to individuals who voluntarily provide aid in good faith during emergencies. This means that if someone steps in to help and accidentally causes harm while trying to assist, they typically cannot be held liable or sued for their actions, as long as they were acting reasonably and with the intent to help.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the core intent of Good Samaritan laws. Mandatory reporting of all incidents is not a requirement under these laws; rather, they relate to the act of helping in an emergency. Legal liability for negligence, on the other hand, is precisely what Good Samaritan laws aim to mitigate, ensuring that people feel safe to lend a hand without fear of being blamed for unforeseen outcomes. Lastly, Good Samaritan laws do not stipulate compensation for any medical expenses incurred as a result of assisting someone in distress; the focus is more on providing legal protection rather than financial support.