Often, when you use a parking lot, on the back of your parking slip or ticket there is a notice that the parking lot owner is not responsible for any damage to your car. Does this disclaimer operate to insulate the owner if your car is damaged? The answers vary widely from state to state, and depending on many circumstances.
In some states, courts have held that a preprinted ticket that includes an express waiver of liability can give sufficient notice to the customer that the parking lot was not taking responsibility for damage, and the parking lot owner is therefore not liable for damages caused to the car while the car was parked in a parking garage or lot. In some cases, courts have held that the waiver of liability does not apply where the customer did not see the waiver. For example, if the waiver is listed on a sign, but the customer did not see it, or would not normally pass the sign before leaving the lot or garage, then the waiver is not effective.
Other courts will only allow the waiver of liability to work where you do not give your car to an employee of the garage. However, in many states, courts reviewing parking tickets have held generally that these broad waivers of liability are void as against public policy. The courts reasoned that a parking garage acts as a professional bailer, and cannot waive its duties even where it expressly tells the customer that it is doing so.
However, even in states where the waiver of liability has an effect, those states generally agree that the waiver does not apply to damages to the car caused by the intentional or negligent actions of the garage or lot employees. The law generally does not allow you to waive liability for damages caused by your own negligence. If this were possible, then every business could just post a generic waiver of liability for everything they do, and customers would never have any recourse. Courts have almost universally held that such a waiver is ineffective, and customers need protection.
Oklahoma Receipt by Parking Lot Owner to Patrons — Waiver of Liability is a legal document that serves as evidence of a transaction between a parking lot owner and a patron. This receipt not only outlines the payment made by the patron but also contains important clauses that waive the liability of the parking lot owner in case of damages or incidents that may occur while the patron's vehicle is parked on the premises. The Oklahoma Receipt by Parking Lot Owner to Patrons — Waiver of Liability is designed to protect the parking lot owner from any legal actions that may arise due to accidents, theft, or damage to the parked vehicle. By obtaining a signed receipt, the parking lot owner ensures that the patron acknowledges and agrees to take full responsibility for any risks associated with leaving their vehicle in the designated area. Different types of Oklahoma Receipt by Parking Lot Owner to Patrons — Waiver of Liability can include variations depending on specific terms and conditions set by the parking lot owner. Some common types of receipts may include: 1. Standard Liability Waiver: This receipt states that the parking lot owner will not be held liable for any damages, losses, or theft that may occur to the patron's vehicle while parked in the lot. 2. Limited Liability Waiver: This type of receipt limits the liability of the parking lot owner to a certain extent. It may specify the conditions under which the owner would be responsible, such as negligence on their part or gross misconduct. 3. Extended Liability Waiver: In contrast to the standard waiver, this receipt may offer additional coverage for certain incidents, such as damage caused by acts of nature or vandalism. The parking lot owner may charge a premium for this type of waiver. 4. Event-Specific Waiver: This receipt is often issued for temporary parking lots during events or festivals. It outlines the terms and conditions specific to the event, including parking duration, fees, and any additional liabilities. Regardless of the type, the Oklahoma Receipt by Parking Lot Owner to Patrons — Waiver of Liability is crucial both for the parking lot owner and the patron. It ensures transparency and clarity regarding the responsibilities and risks associated with parking in a particular lot, thereby protecting both parties from potential legal disputes.
