Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977: Key legislation that restricts the extent to which liability for negligence can be excluded. Particularly important as it prevents exclusion of liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence. All exclusions must pass a reasonableness test.
Consumer Rights Act 2015: Applies to consumer services and requires terms to be fair and transparent. Significantly impacts what can be included in liability waivers for consumer contracts.
Animals Act 1971: Defines liability for damage caused by animals, including specific provisions for dangerous and non-dangerous animals. Contains special considerations for horse-related incidents.
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974: Establishes duties of care for business operators, particularly relevant if the riding takes place at a commercial establishment.
Occupiers' Liability Acts 1957 and 1984: Defines the duty of care owed to both lawful visitors and trespassers on premises where riding takes place.
Common Law Principle: Volenti non fit injuria: Legal doctrine of voluntary assumption of risk - relevant for liability releases where participants knowingly accept the inherent risks of horse riding.
British Horse Society Guidelines: Industry-specific guidelines that should be considered when drafting liability releases for horse riding activities.
Insurance Requirements: Consideration of insurance obligations and requirements that may affect the terms of the liability release.
Minor Protection Provisions: Special legal considerations and provisions required when the liability release involves participants under 18 years of age.
