Generally, no. Sports have inherent risks. An instructor or coach generally is not responsible for injuries to players if the risk of the injury is inherent to the sport. Holding a coach responsible for such injuries may have a chilling effect on the sport or activity. The coach must be allowed to urge the athlete
liability
The Independent Contractor Rule and a Homeowner’s Responsibility for Injuries to Construction Workers
Usually, a homeowner who hires an independent contractor can delegate the responsibility for safety to the contractor. The theory behind the rule is that when an owner hires an independent contractor—or when a prime contractor hires a subcontractor—the responsibility for the safety of the contractor’s employees belongs with the independent contractor, not with the person…
Cal-OSHA and the Homeowner
Homeowners who hire workers must comply with Cal-OSHA safety regulations. Those regulations require the homeowner, as an employer, to furnish a “safe and healthful” place of employment. “Employment” means "the carrying on of any trade, enterprise, project, industry, business, occupation, or work, including all excavation, demolition, and construction work, or any process or operation…
Are Waivers Enforceable Against Family Members?
Waivers signed by parents, releasing liability for future negligent acts committed against minor children in recreational and related settings, are generally enforced by judges in California as discussed here. Interestingly, a clear majority of courts in other states have held that a parent may not release a minor’s prospective claim for negligence.
And when the…