The Short Answer
Participant waivers are commonly used by youth sports organizations to limit their liability exposure, but they are not a substitute for insurance. Courts frequently decline to enforce waivers signed on behalf of minors, and waivers generally cannot waive liability for gross negligence or intentional misconduct.
Even a well-drafted and properly executed waiver leaves significant liability exposure. A parent who signs a waiver can still sue the organization — and often will — when a serious injury occurs. The litigation cost of defending a waiver's enforceability can itself exceed $50,000.
The safest approach is to use both: a well-crafted waiver that limits liability for ordinary negligence where legally permissible, paired with comprehensive liability insurance that covers the exposure the waiver cannot eliminate.
Players Health recommends that all youth sports organizations use properly drafted participant registration agreements and maintain appropriate insurance coverage. Our team can help you understand what insurance you need and what your waiver does and doesn't protect you from.
Coverage Overview
| Coverage Type | Applies? |
|---|---|
| General Liability | ✓ |
| Accident Medical | ✓ |
| Abuse & Molestation | ✓ |
| Directors & Officers | ✓ |
| Umbrella / Excess | ✓ |
| Workers Compensation | – |
| Property Coverage | – |
| Event Cancellation | – |