Massachusetts § 23D - Admissibility of benevolent statements, writings or gestures relating to accident victims
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 23D — Admissibility of benevolent statements, writings or gestures relating to accident victims, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 23D. Admissibility of benevolent statements, writings or gestures relating to accident victims
Section 23D. As used in this section the following words shall, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, have the following meanings:
''Accident'', an occurrence resulting in injury or death to one or more persons which is not the result of willful action by a party.
''Benevolent gestures'', actions which convey a sense of compassion or commiseration emanating from humane impulses.
''Family'', the spouse, parent, grandparent, stepmother, stepfather, child, grandchild, brother, sister, half brother, half sister, adopted children of parent, or spouse's parents of an injured party.
Statements, writings or benevolent gestures expressing sympathy or a general sense of benevolence relating to the pain, suffering or death of a person involved in an accident and made to such person or to the family of such person shall be inadmissible as evidence of an admission of liability in a civil action.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 23D
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 23D cover?
Section 23D ("Admissibility of benevolent statements, writings or gestures relating to accident victims") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 23D?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 23D" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 23D apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.