Duty to Rescue
/ˈdjuːti tuː ˈrɛskjuː/
Definitions
- (n.) A legal obligation requiring an individual to provide reasonable assistance to a person in peril when it is safe to do so.
The court considered whether the defendant breached the duty to rescue in failing to aid the injured pedestrian.
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The duty to rescue varies widely by jurisdiction and typically applies only when a special relationship exists or when the rescuer's intervention does not impose unreasonable risk.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.