HB479 Alabama 2017 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Ken Johnson

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2017

Title

Transportation providers, healthcare, exceptions from civil liability

Summary

HB479 would shield certain transportation providers and volunteers who give free rides to healthcare from civil liability, with conditions and exceptions.

What This Bill Does

The bill adds civil liability immunity for transportation professionals or volunteers who provide free transportation to healthcare, unless their conduct is willful or wanton. Immunity applies to rides from a person’s home to healthcare as well, and only if a conspicuous notice about the immunity is posted. Accepting contributions does not waive the immunity, and the immunity also limits employer liability under respondeat superior unless the conduct is willful or wanton. The act includes severability and an effective date three months after approval.

Who It Affects

• Transportation professionals or volunteers who provide free transportation to healthcare — receive civil liability immunity for acts or omissions in providing that transportation, with posting requirement.
• Patients and healthcare organizations that rely on or oversee such transportation — benefit from reduced risk of lawsuits against providers, but only for non-willful/wanton conduct and with posted notice; liability could still apply for willful or wanton misconduct.

Key Provisions

• Immunity from civil damages for transportation professionals or volunteers who provide free transportation to healthcare, unless conduct is willful or wanton.
• Immunity only applies if the provider posts a conspicuous notice of the immunity on its premises or vehicle.
• Immunity covers transportation from a person's residence to healthcare providers as well as other healthcare-related transport.
• Acceptance of contributions does not waive the immunity.
• Respondeat superior liability for employers is not established unless the act or omission is willful or wanton.
• Provisions are severable; if part is invalid, the rest remains in effect.
• Effective date is the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Transportation