Emergency & SafetyQuestion 169 of 200
California Civil Code §1714.21 provides immunity for lay rescuers who use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The immunity:
a.Requires the rescuer to be a licensed medical professional
b.Generally protects a lay rescuer who uses an AED in good faith, without compensation, during an emergency, from civil liability for resulting injury
c.Applies only if the rescuer signs a liability waiver beforehand
d.Eliminates all liability including for gross negligence and willful misconduct
Explanation
Civil Code §1714.21 provides Good Samaritan protection for lay AED users acting in good faith and without compensation during a medical emergency. The immunity does NOT extend to gross negligence or willful misconduct (d), and it does require certain employer compliance for AED programs (training, maintenance, signage). It does not require medical licensure (a) — the whole point is encouraging bystander use. No waiver is needed (c). California has adopted these protections specifically to encourage AED deployment in workplaces and public buildings.
Law Reference: California Civil Code §1714.21 (AED Good Samaritan immunity)Practice all 200 questions free — no signup required.
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