Hi Everyone!
As we kick off a new semester, there are plenty of social opportunities to look forward to. While having fun, it’s important to keep safety as your #1 priority.
If you happen to encounter a friend or even a stranger experiencing alcohol poisoning, don’t hesitate to help. Texas, along with many other states, has laws in place to protect you from legal repercussions when you assist someone in an emergency.
Texas Good Samaritan Act:
“A person who in good faith administers emergency care at the scene of an emergency or in a hospital is not liable in civil damages for an act performed during the emergency unless the act is willfully or wantonly negligent.” – What is the Texas Good Samaritan Law?
In Texas, you are not liable if you are assisting in an emergency and acting in good faith. This law protects you from legal prosecution if something occurs during your care.
Texas 911 Lifeline Law:
“Provide(s) limited immunity from prosecution for a person under 21 years of age who reports a medical emergency, i.e., a possible alcohol overdose, for that person or for another minor. The limited immunity would only apply to consumption of alcohol by a minor or possession of alcohol by a minor.” – 82(r) SB 1331 – Enrolled version – Bill analysis
This law protects minors who act in good faith on behalf of people suffering from alcohol poisoning or overdose.
Washington 911 Good Samaritan Overdose Law:
In WA state, anyone trying to help win a medical emergency is generally protected from civil liabilities by RCW 4.24.300. WA state’s 911 Good Samaritan Overdose Law RCW 69.50.315 gives additional, specific protections against drug possession charges and alcohol poisoning. Learn more at: https://stopoverdose.org/basics/good-samaritan-law/
You should NEVER fear getting in trouble or getting your friend in trouble. Act quickly and get help if you or your friend are injured or in danger.
Stay safe and look out for each other!
Karla Garcia is a student at the University of Texas at Austin majoring in International Relations and Global Studies. She is currently a senior who has experience working with the UDS program as support staff, including as a team member for our UDS Symposium.
Leave a Reply