Virginia Off-Road (VAOR)
Liability Waiver, Release of Claims, and Assumption of Risk
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. THIS IS A LEGALLY BINDING DOCUMENT.
By participating in any Virginia Off-Road (“VAOR”) or US Off-Road affiliated activity, event, ride, trail cleanup, meeting, training, or gathering (collectively, “Activities”), you acknowledge that off-roading and outdoor recreation involve inherent risks. This Waiver is intended to clearly outline those risks and your responsibilities as a participant.
1. Acknowledgment of Inherent Risks
I understand and acknowledge that off-roading, trail riding, overlanding, and related activities are inherently dangerous. Risks include, but are not limited to:
Vehicle rollovers, collisions, and mechanical failures
Uneven terrain, rocks, mud, water crossings, and steep inclines
Weather conditions including rain, snow, ice, heat, and cold
Remote locations with limited or delayed emergency response
Actions or omissions of other participants, spectators, or volunteers
Property damage, personal injury, permanent disability, or death
I voluntarily choose to participate in these Activities with full knowledge of these risks.
2. Assumption of Risk
I knowingly and freely assume all risks, both known and unknown, foreseeable and unforeseeable, associated with participation in VAOR Activities, even if such risks arise from the negligence of others.
3. Release and Waiver of Liability
In consideration for being permitted to participate in VAOR Activities, I hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue:
Virginia Off-Road (VAOR)
US Off-Road and any affiliated state chapters
Event organizers, directors, officers, board members, employees, volunteers, land managers, sponsors, and partners
from any and all claims, demands, losses, damages, liabilities, costs, or expenses arising out of or related to my participation, including claims caused in whole or in part by negligence, except where prohibited by law.
4. Indemnification and Hold Harmless
I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the released parties from any claims, damages, or expenses (including attorney’s fees) arising from:
My participation in Activities
My actions or omissions
Damage to property or injury to others caused by me or my vehicle
5. Vehicle Responsibility
I certify that:
My vehicle is owned by me or I have permission to operate it
My vehicle is mechanically sound and suitable for off-road use
I carry valid insurance and any required licenses
I am solely responsible for my vehicle, passengers, equipment, and personal property
VAOR does not inspect vehicles and makes no representations regarding vehicle safety.
6. No Professional Instruction or Supervision
I understand that VAOR leaders, trail guides, or volunteers:
Are not professional instructors or safety experts
Provide guidance on a voluntary, informal basis only
Do not guarantee safety or trail conditions
I remain fully responsible for my own decisions and actions at all times.
7. Medical Responsibility
I acknowledge that:
I am physically and mentally capable of participating
I am responsible for my own medical insurance and expenses
VAOR is not responsible for providing medical care or emergency transport
I authorize emergency medical treatment if deemed necessary, and I accept full financial responsibility for such care.
8. Property and Land Use
I agree to:
Respect public and private lands
Follow all laws, rules, and trail regulations
Stay on designated routes
Practice Leave No Trace principles
I understand that violations may result in removal from Activities and potential legal consequences.
9. Media Release (Optional but Recommended)
I grant VAOR permission to use photographs, video, or audio recordings of me taken during Activities for promotional, educational, or informational purposes without compensation.
10. Minors
If I am signing on behalf of a minor, I certify that I am the parent or legal guardian and agree to all terms of this Waiver on the minor’s behalf.
11. Governing Law and Severability
This Waiver shall be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia. If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
12. Agreement and Acknowledgment
By participating in VAOR Activities, I acknowledge that:
I have read and fully understand this Waiver
I understand I am giving up substantial legal rights
I am signing freely and voluntarily
This Waiver may be accepted electronically and is valid for all VAOR Activities unless otherwise stated.
Virginia Off-Road (VAOR)
A Virginia-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
