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.
Maryland Release and Waiver of Liability Given in Favor of Owner of Stable and Owner of Horses Kept at Stable by Those Who Ride Horses Kept at Stable including Assumption of all Risks of Personal Bodily Injury — Horseback Riding is a legal document that aims to protect the stable owner and horse owners from potential liability related to horseback riding activities. This document is used when individuals choose to ride horses at a specific stable in Maryland. By signing this release and waiver of liability, riders acknowledge the inherent risks associated with horseback riding and agree to assume all responsibility for any personal bodily injury that may occur during their time at the stable. It is important to note that each stable may have its own specific version of this release and waiver, but they all serve a similar purpose. The document outlines the various risks associated with horseback riding, such as the potential for falls, contact with horses, equipment failure, and the unpredictable nature of horses. Riders must understand and agree that these risks exist and that they willingly choose to participate in horseback riding activities despite these risks. Additionally, the release and waiver make it clear that riders waive their right to hold the stable owner and horse owners responsible for any accidents, injuries, or damages that may occur during their time at the stable. This includes any negligent acts or omissions by the stable owner or horse owners, as long as they have not deliberately or willfully caused harm. Some specific types of Maryland Release and Waiver of Liability Given in Favor of Owner of Stable and Owner of Horses Kept at Stable by Those Who Ride Horses Kept at Stable including Assumption of all Risks of Personal Bodily Injury — Horseback Riding may include variations based on specific circumstances or additional clauses addressing more specific liabilities. Examples of these variations could be: 1. Maryland Release and Waiver of Liability for Minors: This type of release and waiver would include specific provisions and additional consent signatures from a parent or legal guardian, as horseback riding activities involving minors may carry additional legal considerations. 2. Maryland Release and Waiver of Liability for Horse Show Events: This version might include specific clauses regarding participation in horse show events, outlining the risks involved in this particular context and ensuring that riders accept these risks before participating. 3. Maryland Release and Waiver of Liability for Riding Lessons: This type of release and waiver may have additional clauses addressing the unique risks associated with horseback riding lessons, such as the learning process involved and the potential for rider inexperience. These variations ensure that the release and waiver of liability is tailored to the specific circumstances, activities, and potential risks riders may encounter at the stable. The aim is to provide clarity and protection for both riders and stable owners, while ensuring that riders understand and accept the risks inherent in horseback riding.
