Have you signed a waiver before taking part in an event such as a fun run, charity event, or when signing up to the gym? Waivers are everywhere these days – if you've signed one, you probably gave little thought before doing so. But what legal effect do these waivers actually have? Does signing a waiver really mean you have waived away your rights?

Why Will You Be Asked to Sign a Waiver?

Event organisers, gym owners and others who run activities that may result in an individual suffering an injury will often ask participants to sign a waiver before they take part in these activities. Their hope is that by signing a waiver, you essentially give up your right to claim if you suffer any harm as a result of taking part in the activity. If you refuse to sign a waiver, you may not be allowed to take part in the event, because of this it is no surprise that many people simply choose to sign without giving it a second thought.

What Is the Legal Effect of Signing a Personal Injury Waiver?

While a waiver is legal in its own right, it cannot be used to completely shield businesses and organisers from all liability for injuries suffered by members of the public. Specifically, a waiver cannot be used to prevent a claim being made if you suffered an injury as a result of negligence on someone else's part. For example, if you fell off a piece of equipment at the gym because it had been poorly constructed, you may still be able to make a personal injury claim.

What Does the Law Say About Personal Injury Waivers?

Under the Unfair Contract Terms Act, event organisers cannot exclude or restrict their liability for death or injury resulting from negligence. Few people are aware of the Unfair Contract Terms Act, something that businesses and event organisers rely upon to prevent anyone who has suffered an injury pursuing a claim against them. If you have been injured in circumstances where you signed a waiver, it is essential that you speak with an experienced personal injury solicitor for guidance on whether you may still be able to make a claim.

Experienced Personal Injury Lawyers in Manchester

If you have suffered a personal injury, the expert solicitors at Aubrey Isaacson are here to help. We have many years of experience when it comes to negotiating awards and fighting disputed claims, including those where personal injury waivers have been signed.

You can rely on our personal injury lawyers for support with claims including:

• Road traffic accidents
• Accidents at work
• Medical negligence
• Accidents in public places
• Criminal Injuries Compensation Claims

Our local Personal Injury Solicitors Philip Cohen & Joanne Rogerson have many years of experience helping people locally and across the UK to claim compensation for serious accidents and injuries and we can help you too.

Contact Our Personal Injury Solicitors in Manchester, Bury & Prestwich

Call 0161 959 5000 (Head Office, Prestwich) or 0161 959 5050 (Sunny Bank Office, Bury). You can also contact us using our online form.