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.
A Pennsylvania Receipt by Parking Lot Owner to Patrons — Waiver of Liability is a legal document that serves as proof of payment for parking services at a designated parking lot. It also includes a clause that releases the parking lot owner from any responsibility or liability for any damages, accidents, or theft that may occur while the patron's vehicle is parked in the lot. Keywords: Pennsylvania, receipt, parking lot owner, patrons, waiver of liability, legal document, proof of payment, parking services, damages, accidents, theft. Different types of Pennsylvania Receipt by Parking Lot Owner to Patrons — Waiver of Liability may include: 1. Standard Parking Lot Receipt: This type of receipt is the most common and straightforward type issued by parking lot owners. It includes the essential details such as the date, time of entry, time of exit, total parking fee, and a liability waiver clause. 2. Valet Parking Receipt: This receipt is specifically used in parking lots where valet services are provided. In addition to the regular information, it includes details about the valet attendant who parked the vehicle and any additional services provided, such as car washing or interior cleaning. 3. Long-Term Parking Receipt: This type of receipt caters to individuals who park their vehicles for an extended period, such as at airports or train stations. It may have additional sections to record the duration of parking, discounts or special rates applied, and options for prepayment or reservations. 4. Event Parking Receipt: Event parking receipts are issued during large gatherings like concerts, sports events, or festivals. They often include details about the event, date, and time along with the usual parking information. These receipts may also have unique disclaimers related to the event, limited liability, or policies regarding leaving the lot during the event. 5. Monthly Parking Receipt: For those who opt for monthly parking passes, a specialized receipt is issued that outlines the monthly payment amount, duration, and any specific terms related to the contract. This receipt may have more complex clauses concerning liability waivers due to its longer-term nature. 6. Park and Ride Receipt: Park and ride facilities, often found near public transportation, have their own specific receipt format. These receipts include information such as transit schedule details, parking fees, and any particular rules associated with accessing the facility. 7. Garage Parking Receipt: This receipt is used for parking lots located within parking garages. It typically includes information about the garage level, space number, and any relevant security measures implemented within the structure. No matter the type, a Pennsylvania Receipt by Parking Lot Owner to Patrons — Waiver of Liability is a crucial document that protects the parking lot owner from potential legal disputes, ensuring that patrons acknowledge and accept responsibility for any incidents that may occur while their vehicle is parked on the premises.
