Under Indiana law, an equine professional is not liable for an injury to, or the death of, a participant in equine activities resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities (Indiana Code § 34-31-5).
1) Acknowledgment of Risk Participant acknowledges that horses are large, powerful, and unpredictable animals, and that equine activities inherently involve risks, including, but not limited to, bodily injury, death, or property damage resulting from the behavior of horses or participation in activities involving horses. Participant voluntarily assumes all such risks.
2) Indiana Equine Activity Liability Act (Indiana Code § 34-31-5) Participant acknowledges and understands that, under the Indiana Equine Activity Liability Act (Indiana Code § 34-31-5), “an equine activity sponsor, equine professional, or any other person” is not liable for injury or death of a participant resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities, as defined by state law. Participant further acknowledges that Great Returns Stables is an “equine activity sponsor” and “equine professional” under this statute and is therefore entitled to all immunities and protections provided therein.
3) Release of Liability In consideration for being permitted to enter upon and use the property, facilities, horses, or equipment of Great Returns Stables, Participant hereby releases, waives, and discharges Great Returns Stables, its owners, principals, agents, employees, trainers, volunteers, and affiliates (collectively, “Released Parties”) from any and all claims, demands, damages, causes of action, or liability of any kind, whether known or unknown, arising out of or related to participation in or observation of equine activities; presence on the premises of Great Returns Stables; or any injury, illness, death, or property loss sustained by Participant or any minor child or guest under Participant’s care. This release applies to all acts of ordinary negligence by the Released Parties and to all risks inherent in equine activities as recognized under Indiana law.
4) Indemnification and Hold Harmless Participant agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Great Returns Stables and all Released Parties from and against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising from: Participant’s own acts or omissions; any damage or injury caused by Participant’s horse, guest, or invitee; violation of Stable rules or policies; or participation in any equine activity or use of Stables’ facilities.
5) Medical Authorization In the event of an injury or emergency, Participant authorizes Great Returns Stables to secure medical treatment deemed necessary and agrees to assume full financial responsibility for any such treatment, including transportation and emergency care.
6) Required Attire and Safety Equipment Participant acknowledges and agrees that: Riding helmets meeting ASTM/SEI standards are strongly recommended for all riders and required for minors. Boots with a defined heel and long pants (such as jeans or breeches) are required when astride a horse. Participant assumes full responsibility for personal safety and for any injury sustained as a result of not wearing recommended or required protective gear.
7) Conduct and Compliance Participant agrees to follow all posted rules and verbal instructions from Stable staff and understands that failure to do so may result in removal from the premises without refund or further notice.
8) Minor Participants If Participant is under the age of eighteen (18), this Agreement must be signed by a parent or legal guardian, who agrees to all terms herein and assumes full responsibility for the minor’s participation and conduct.
9) Governing Law This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Indiana, including the Indiana Equine Activity Liability Act (Indiana Code § 34-31-5). Any dispute arising under this Agreement shall be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in Vanderburgh County, Indiana.
10) Acknowledgment and Signature Participant affirms that they have read and fully understand this Agreement, that they are signing voluntarily and without coercion, and that this Agreement is binding upon themselves, their heirs, assigns, and legal representatives.
Participant understands that electronic signatures are legally binding and are considered to have the same legal status as handwritten signatures.
