A waiver or release is the intentional and voluntary act of relinquishing something, such as a known right to sue a person or organization for an injury. The term waiver is sometimes used to refer a document that is signed before any damages actually occur. A release is sometimes used to refer a document that is executed after an injury has occurred.
Courts vary in their approach to enforcing releases depending on the particular facts of each case, the effect of the release on other statutes and laws, and the view of the court of the benefits of releases as a matter of public policy. Many courts will invalidate documents signed on behalf of minors. Also, Courts do not permit persons to waive their responsibility when they have exercised gross negligence or misconduct that is intentional or criminal in nature. Such an agreement would be deemed to be against public policy because it would encourage dangerous and illegal behavior.
California Release and Waiver of Liability Given in Favor of Owner of Stable by Those Who Board Horses at Stable, including Assumption of all Risks, is a legal document that protects the stable owner from any liabilities and claims arising from horse boarding activities. By signing this waiver, individuals who board their horses at the stable agree to release the owner of any responsibility for accidents, injuries, or damages that may occur while their horse is on the premises. The primary purpose of this release and waiver of liability is to ensure that the horse owners understand and accept the inherent risks associated with horse boarding and riding activities. It acknowledges that horses are unpredictable animals and that accidents can happen even with proper care and maintenance. The document typically consists of various sections, including: 1. Liability Waiver: This section explicitly states that the horse owner releases the stable owner from any liability for injuries or damages that may occur to them, their horse, or any third party while on the stable premises. 2. Assumption of Risks: The horse owner acknowledges and assumes all the risks associated with boarding and riding horses, including but not limited to the risks of injury, illness, property damage, or even death. 3. Indemnification: This clause confirms that the horse owner will indemnify and hold the stable owner harmless in case of any claims or lawsuits brought against the stable as a result of the horse owner's actions or negligence. 4. Emergency Medical Treatment: In the event of an emergency or injury, the horse owner authorizes the stable owner to seek medical attention and treatment for themselves or their horse. 5. Governing Law and Jurisdiction: This section outlines that the release and waiver are subject to California law and that any legal disputes will be resolved within the state. 6. Severability: This clause ensures that if any part of the release and waiver is declared invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions will still be binding and effective. It is important to note that there might be variations or additional clauses depending on the specific stable or boarding agreement. Therefore, it is crucial for horse owners to carefully read and understand the release and waiver before signing. Other types of specialized release and waiver forms related to horse boarding may include liability waivers for horse training or lessons, trail riding, or participation in horse shows or competitions. These waivers would specifically address the risks and activities associated with each respective scenario, while also including a general assumption of risk and waiver of liability.