Release of Liability

A release of liability is a written agreement in which a participant gives up the right to bring certain legal claims against a business if they are injured during an activity.

In the attractions industry, the release is usually the core section of a guest waiver. It names who is released, such as the operator, its employees, and partners, and which claims are covered. Many states will not enforce a release that tries to cover gross negligence or intentional harm.

Why it matters for operators

A release only protects you if you can prove the guest signed it. Storing each signed release with the booking, along with a timestamp and IP address, gives you a reliable record if a claim ever comes up.

This definition is general information, not legal advice. Have an attorney review your waiver language for your state and activities.

Related terms

• Waiver audit trail

• Electronic signature

• Digital waivers