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Horseback Riding Waiver template

A release for trail rides, riding lessons, and pony rides, with rider weight and experience questions and a place for your state's equine warning notice.

[Your Business Name]

Horseback Riding Release of Liability

Every rider signs before riding. Parents or guardians sign for riders under 18.

[Your Business Name] — Equine Activity Release of Liability and Assumption of Risk

Please read this agreement carefully before you sign it. When you sign, you give up certain legal rights, including the right to sue.

1. The activity

I want to take part in horseback riding, trail rides, lessons, pony rides, grooming, and other activities with horses provided by [Your Business Name] (the "Business"). This includes the use of its facilities, equipment, and services (together, the "Activity").

2. State warning notice

[Many states have an Equine Activity Liability Act that requires a specific warning notice in this agreement. Replace this paragraph with the exact notice for your state before you publish.]

3. Risks I accept

I understand that the Activity has inherent risks that cannot be removed completely, even when everyone is careful. These risks include, but are not limited to:

  • the unpredictable behavior of horses, which can bite, kick, run, buck, rear, stumble, or fall;
  • falls from a horse and being stepped on or crushed;
  • trail hazards, such as uneven ground, branches, water crossings, and wildlife;
  • equipment failure, such as a broken strap or slipping saddle;
  • the actions of other riders and horses.

These risks can cause minor injury, serious injury, permanent disability, or death, and damage to or loss of property. I choose to accept all of these risks, both known and unknown.

4. My responsibilities

I agree to:

  • obey the instructions of guides and staff at all times;
  • wear an approved riding helmet and closed shoes with a heel;
  • tell staff truthfully about my riding experience and my weight;
  • stay with the group and keep a safe distance from other horses.

5. My health

I confirm that I am in good health and that I have no physical or medical condition that makes the Activity unsafe for me, or that I have asked a doctor and have permission to take part. I will tell staff about any condition that could affect my safety.

6. Release of liability

To the fullest extent the law allows, I release, waive, and discharge the Business and its owners, employees, instructors, contractors, volunteers, and agents (the "Released Parties") from all claims, demands, and liability for injury, illness, death, or loss of or damage to property that arise from my participation in the Activity. This includes claims caused by the ordinary negligence of the Released Parties. This release does not apply to gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

7. Indemnity

I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Released Parties from any claims, losses, costs, or expenses, including reasonable attorney fees, that result from my actions, my breach of this agreement, or my violation of the rules.

8. Medical treatment

If I am injured or become ill, I authorize the Business to call for and arrange emergency medical treatment for me. I understand that the Business is not responsible for the cost of that treatment, and I agree to pay it.

9. Signing for minors

If I sign for one or more minors, I confirm that I am their parent or legal guardian. I agree to the terms of this agreement for them and for myself. I accept the risks of the Activity for them, and I agree to the release and indemnity above on their behalf to the extent the law allows. I agree to supervise them as the Business requires.

10. Photos and video

I agree that the Business may take photos or video during the Activity that may include me, and may use them for its marketing without payment to me. I may ask the Business in writing to stop new uses of my image.

11. General terms

This agreement is intended to be as broad and inclusive as the law of the place where the Activity takes place allows. If any part of it is found invalid, the rest stays in full force. This agreement binds me, my heirs, and my legal representatives. It is the entire agreement between me and the Business about these matters.

I have read this agreement. I understand it, and I sign it voluntarily. I understand that I give up substantial rights by signing it, including my right to sue.

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Signature

Date

This template is an example. It is not legal advice. Laws are different in each country and state, so have a qualified lawyer review your waiver before you use it.

Questions about this template

Do I need special wording for horseback riding?

Many US states have equine activity laws that require a specific warning notice, sometimes in a set font size or on a sign. This template marks where to add it. Ask a local lawyer for the exact text.

Why ask for rider weight?

Stables use weight to choose a suitable horse and to follow weight limits. Remove the question if you do not need it.

Collect your horseback riding waiver online

Customers sign on their phone or a front-desk tablet. You get a PDF and an audit trail for every signature.

Free plan, no credit card. Most businesses are live the same day.