Can Liability Releases Hold Up In Court?

This segment of The Law and You addresses pre-printed liability releases found on the backs of tickets.

TRANSCRIPT

JOEL: This is Joel Block for The Law and You with Eugene attorney Don Corson. Don, we’ve all been to events or activities where on the back of our ticket are warnings that the place is not responsible for any injuries. What’s with that?

DON: Joel, on the back of many ticket stubs or even in small print on contracts, there may be a liability release. Businesses sometimes use these releases as a way to avoid responsibility for injuries or death on their premises. Legally, it’s a grey area. In a recent case, the Oregon Supreme Court found a ski resort could be held accountable when a young man was paralyzed because of negligent construction of a terrain park, even though there was a liability release. If you or a family member are injured because of unsafe activities or dangerous premises, don’t just assume that a liability release takes away your rights.

JOEL: Thanks, Don. For more information about these liability releases and your rights, visit the Law Firm of Corson & Johnson at CorsonJohnsonLaw.com. The Law and You is a community service and does not replace the advice of an attorney.

The Corson & Johnson Law Firm, an Oregon personal injury trial law firm, produced and distributed The Law and You as a public service to help families and consumers answer questions about our legal system and how it works for them. The Law and You spots were aired on KKNU, KMGE, KEUG, and KODZ.  Please note that laws may have changed since a public service spot was aired.  If you have suggestions for legal questions or topics you would like addressed, please contact us.