New Civil Immunity Law Aims At Saving Children Left In Hot Vehicles

Last updated on Monday, July 6, 2015

(UNDATED) - We’ve heard of the unfortunate situation where a child is left in the car alone on a hot summer day and that child dies.

A new law grants 'civil immunity' to someone if they have to 'forcibly enter' a locked vehicle to rescue a child.

So a person can rest assured they won't get in trouble if they have to break into a car to get a child out.

Trooper Jason Schoffstall with Indiana State Police says this could give a bystander a little more ease about how to help and possibly save a life.

There are some specifics so that people don't cause damage if it's not needed.

For example, the bystander needs to call local law enforcement.

Also, the child has to appear to be under 18 years old.

Still, police say this is a great protection.

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