We do fear something bad "might" happen to us if we help.
We're afraid we'll be sued for doing the wrong thing.
Laws vary, from state to state, and country to country on this.
Some countries require you help, such as France.
Some states, like Minnesota and Vermont, will fine you, if you do not help.
Please read through the following URLs,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Good_Samaritan_lawhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duty_to_rescueUnder the Good_Samaratin_law URL, it is discouraging to note the example,
"
Good Samaritan provisions are not universal in application. The legal principle of imminent peril may also apply.<9> In the absence of imminent peril, the actions of a rescuer may be perceived by the courts to be reckless and not worthy of protection. To illustrate, a motor vehicle collision occurs, but there is no fire, no immediate life threat from injuries and no danger of a second collision. If a 'good Samaritan' elects to 'rescue' the victim from the wreckage, causing paralysis or some other injury, a court may rule that good Samaritan laws do not apply because the victim was not in imminent peril and hold the actions of the rescuer as 'reckless' and unnecessary.<10>
"
How am I to make a snap judgement whether the principle of imminent peril applies
when I never heard of the imminent peril principle before reading this wiki just now?
How do I know whether there is threat of fire or danger of a second collision?
I'm shaken up enough, by whatever is happening, to not think clearly, as it is.
I'm sure many people can relate to the saying, or should I say the curse,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No_good_deed_goes_unpunished