A waiver or release is a legal document you may be required to sign as a condition of entering certain premises—such as a gym, zoo, trampoline park, or amusement park—or engaging in a certain activity, such as whitewater rafting, recreational sports, ziplining, rock climbing, bungee jumping, sea kayaking, deep sea fishing, archery, skeet shooting, or going on a nature walk.

The primary purposes of a liability waiver or release are (1) to warn you of the dangers of entering the premises or engaging in the activity and (2) eliminating legal responsibility for ordinary negligence (not gross negligence) of the owner, business, organization, or sponsor.

The enforceability of liability waivers or releases vary from state to state and may be governed by a state’s statutes and its court opinions (also known as case law or common law).

In Tennessee, waivers or releases are commonly used by businesses and organizations to limit their liability for injuries or damages that occur on their premises or during activities they sponsor. These legal documents typically inform participants of the risks involved and contractually absolve the entity of responsibility for ordinary negligence, but not for gross negligence or willful misconduct. The enforceability of these waivers is subject to Tennessee state law, which includes both statutes and judicial decisions. Tennessee courts have generally upheld the validity of properly constructed liability waivers, provided they are clear, unambiguous, involve a knowledgeable relinquishment of rights, and do not violate public policy. However, waivers for certain activities, especially those involving minors, may be subject to additional scrutiny or statutory regulations. It is important for individuals to read and understand any waiver or release before signing it, and for businesses to ensure their waivers are drafted in accordance with Tennessee law.