The following form is a release of liability and assumption of risk given by a customer in favor of a person who rents bounce houses for recreational activities.
Courts vary in their approach to enforcing releases depending on the particular facts of each case, the effect of the release on other statutes and laws, and the view of the court of the benefits of releases as a matter of public policy. Many courts will invalidate documents signed on behalf of minors. Also, Courts do not permit persons to waive their responsibility when they have exercised gross negligence or misconduct that is intentional or criminal in nature. Such an agreement would be deemed to be against public policy because it would encourage dangerous and illegal behavior.
Title: Protecting Yourself: Understanding South Dakota's Release and Waiver of Liability for Bounce House Rentals Introduction: When renting an indoor or outdoor bounce house in South Dakota, it is important to understand the legal implications and potential risks involved. As a precautionary measure, bounce house rental companies often require their customers to sign a Release and Waiver of Liability. This document helps protect the owner of the bounce house from liability and transfers certain risks to the customer. In this article, we will delve into the details of South Dakota's Release and Waiver of Liability, discussing its purpose, contents, and different types that may exist. Key Keywords: South Dakota, Release and Waiver of Liability, Bounce House, Indoor, Outdoor, Personal Bodily Injury, Assumption of Risks, Customer, Owner 1. The Purpose of South Dakota's Release and Waiver of Liability: In South Dakota, the Release and Waiver of Liability is designed to protect the owner of a bounce house rental company from potential lawsuits arising due to personal bodily injuries sustained while using the equipment. By signing the release, the customer acknowledges and assumes certain risks associated with bounce house usage. 2. Contents of South Dakota's Release and Waiver of Liability: The Release and Waiver of Liability generally includes the following key elements: a) Identifying Information: The release will typically include the customer's and owner's identification details, such as names, addresses, contact information, and signatures. b) Description of Activities: The document will explicitly state that the customer understands and agrees to participate in bounce house activities. c) Assumption of Risks: The release will outline the potential risks and dangers associated with using a bounce house, including the inherent unpredictability and possibility of personal bodily injury. d) Waiver Clause: The waiver clause specifies that the customer willingly accepts all risks and waives any claims or rights to sue the owner for injuries resulting from using the bounce house. e) Indemnification Clause: The indemnification clause may hold the customer responsible for any damages or legal costs incurred by the owner due to injuries sustained by the customer or a third party during bounce house usage. f) Severability Clause: This section ensures that if any part of the release is deemed unenforceable, it will not invalidate the entire document. g) Governing Law and Jurisdiction: The release will establish that South Dakota law governs the agreement and specify the jurisdiction where any legal disputes shall be resolved. 3. Different Types of South Dakota Release and Waiver of Liability: Depending on specific circumstances, there might be variations of the Release and Waiver of Liability Agreement designed for different types of bounce houses, locations (indoor or outdoor), and age groups of customers. The key purpose remains the same: shifting certain risks to the customer and protecting the owner from liability. a) Indoor Bounce House Release and Waiver of Liability: This type of agreement specifically covers indoor bounce house rentals, addressing potential risks and injuries occurring within indoor premises. b) Outdoor Bounce House Release and Waiver of Liability: Outdoor bounce houses come with their unique risks and hazards due to weather conditions, terrain, and other factors. This release addresses such specific risks associated with outdoor bounce house usage. c) Child and Adult Separated Liability Agreement: If both children and adults use the bounce house, an agreement might be drafted to differentiate liability and risks based on age groups. This helps ensure appropriate assumption of risks between adults and children to clarify responsibility. Conclusion: Understanding South Dakota's Release and Waiver of Liability is crucial when renting a bounce house. By signing this legal document, customers acknowledge the inherent risks involved in bounce house usage and relieve the owner from potential liability. Whether renting an indoor or outdoor bounce house, it is essential to read and comprehend the agreement's terms to prioritize safety. Consulting legal professionals can provide further clarification and insights. Stay responsible and enjoy safe bounce house fun in South Dakota!