Riding Lesson Registration

Rider Information

Equine Activity Liability Release, Assumption of Risk, & Helmet Policy Agreement

NOTICE: Under New Jersey law, an equine activity sponsor or 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, pursuant to P.L. 1997, c.287 (C.5:15-1 et seq.).

I, the undersigned participant (or legal guardian if participant is under 18), understand and agree as follows:

1. Scope of Activities

   Heritage Ranch, LLC’s undertakings include, but are not limited to: horse boarding, training, riding camps, riding lessons, trail rides, agritainment events, petting zoos, and all related equine and farm-based services (collectively, the “Activities”). These Activities may involve direct or indirect contact with horses, ponies, donkeys, miniature livestock, and other animals.
   

2. Acknowledgement of Inherent Risk

   I understand that the Activities are inherently dangerous and involve risks that may result in serious injury, permanent disability, or death. These risks include, but are not limited to: the propensity of horses and other animals to behave in ways that may result in injury (such as bucking, shying, biting, rearing, kicking, or unpredictable movements), collisions with objects or other animals, unpredictable terrain, weather conditions, and the limited ability of even trained animals to react safely in all situations.

3. Helmet Policy

   Riders under 18 years of age: An ASTM/SEI-certified riding helmet is required at all times while mounted.

   
   

   Riders 18 years of age or older: While Heritage Ranch strongly recommends wearing a helmet, I understand that I may choose to ride without one. If I do so, I acknowledge that this decision is entirely voluntary, and I understand that riding without a helmet significantly increases the risk of serious head injury or death.

4. Release of Liability

   If I am 18 or older and choose to ride without a helmet, I hereby waive, release, and discharge Heritage Ranch, LLC, its owners, agents, employees, volunteers, contractors, and affiliates from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action, whether in law or equity, arising out of or related to injuries, losses, or damages sustained during the Activities, including but not limited to those arising from the decision to ride without a helmet, whether caused by negligence or otherwise.

5. Assumption of Risk I freely and voluntarily assume full responsibility for all risks, known and unknown, inherent or otherwise, in connection with the Activities, including the decision to ride without a helmet if I am legally eligible to make that choice.

6. Hold Harmless / Indemnification I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Heritage Ranch, LLC, its owners, agents, employees, volunteers, contractors, and affiliates from and against any and all claims, demands, causes of action, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including attorney’s fees) arising out of or resulting from my participation in the Activities, including but not limited to claims brought by third parties, whether caused by my own actions or the actions of others, and including those arising from my decision to ride without a helmet if applicable.
   

7. Confidentiality I understand and agree that any personal, medical, or contact information I provide to Heritage Ranch, LLC will be used solely for the purpose of administering lessons, camps, boarding, events, or other Activities. Such information will not be disclosed to any third party except as required by law or with my written consent.
   

8. HIPAA Compliance & Medical Information In the event of an accident or medical emergency, I authorize Heritage Ranch, LLC to share relevant medical information I have provided with emergency medical personnel. I understand that Heritage Ranch, LLC will make reasonable efforts to comply with applicable privacy laws, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), regarding the safeguarding of medical information. I acknowledge that Heritage Ranch, LLC is not a “covered entity” as defined by HIPAA, but will nonetheless take reasonable steps to protect my information from unauthorized disclosure.
   

9. MEDIA RELEASE 

   I hereby consent to and authorize the use and reproduction by Heritage Ranch, LLC of all photographs and any other audio-visual materials taken of me for promotional material, educational activities, and exhibitions, or for any other use for the benefit of the program.