Testing the Waters of an Arizona Duty-to-Rescue Law

This Note considers the curious urban legend that suggests Arizonans have a legal duty to provide water to thirsty strangers. It concludes that this “law” is a myth, but its existence reflects the important reality that Arizona is an outstanding candidate for a duty-to-rescue law that would require citizens to assist people in grave danger (including those who are severely dehydrated). This Note gives a detailed overview of the philosophical debate over duty-to-rescue laws, discusses the content and effect of existing duty-to-rescue laws in the United States, and proposes a model duty-to-rescue statute for Arizona.