Golden Hour: 60 Minutes Crucial for Accident Victims; Good Samaritan Law Explained

• The 'Golden Hour' refers to the first 60 minutes post-accident, where timely medical aid can reduce death risk by up to 80%.
• The concept, introduced by R. Adams Cowley in the 1960s, emphasizes immediate care to prevent fatalities from hemorrhage, shock, or internal injuries.
• The central government's 'Good Samaritan' guidelines protect helpers from legal hassles, police interrogation, and medical costs.
• The Motor Vehicles Act 2019 and a Supreme Court order provide legal backing, mandating hospitals to offer free primary treatment.
• An incentive scheme rewards Good Samaritans with 25,000 rupees for bringing accident victims to hospitals within the Golden Hour.

Why It Matters: Timely medical intervention during the 'Golden Hour' and 'Good Samaritan' protection are vital for saving accident victims.