Are Arkansas Sports Waivers Enforceable? What Parents Need to Know About Negligence Claims for Minors - Joseph Gates

From Gates Law Firm PLLC – Are Arkansas Sports Waivers Enforceable? What Parents Need to Know About Negligence Claims for Minors uncovers the critical legal realities behind liability waivers signed at trampoline parks, amusement parks, water parks, and other recreational facilities across Arkansas. Many families believe signing a waiver means surrendering their rights, but this episode explores why that isn’t always true—especially when children are involved. Featuring insights from Little Rock child injury claims attorney Joseph Gates, this discussion sheds light on how Arkansas law protects minors and why waiver enforceability often comes down to more than just a signature.

We explore what these waivers really mean—from exculpatory clauses and indemnity agreements to assumptions of risk—and how they are strategically crafted to shield businesses from responsibility. Yet, Arkansas public policy prioritizes child safety and imposes strict legal standards when parents sign away their children’s rights. The episode highlights why these waivers are not always enforceable, particularly when negligence at facilities like Altitude Trampoline Park, Sky Zone, or Magic Springs Theme and Water Park causes preventable injuries. Listeners will learn how legal protections for minors often override contractual language that favors recreational businesses.

The podcast also examines the difference between inherent risks and actionable negligence—drawing a clear legal line between accidents that come with the territory and those caused by poor maintenance, inadequate supervision, or untrained staff. With real-world examples and references to Arkansas Children's Hospital and UAMS Medical Center, we address what constitutes gross negligence and how facilities can be held liable when they breach their duty of care. We also delve into how negligence claims can move forward in Pulaski County, Faulkner County, Saline County, or Lonoke County courts, regardless of any waiver a parent may have signed.

Whether your child twisted an ankle during normal play or suffered a severe injury due to neglected equipment or insufficient safety protocols, this episode empowers parents to understand their rights and challenge assumptions. Hosted by Gates Law Firm PLLC—where Joseph Gates has fought for Arkansas injury victims since 2010—Are Arkansas Sports Waivers Enforceable? What Parents Need to Know About Negligence Claims for Minors is a must-listen for families navigating child injury claims and seeking justice in the face of intimidating legal documents.

Gates Law Firm PLLC

2725 Cantrell Rd Ste 200 Little Rock, AR 72202, United States

(501) 779-8091

https://www.google.com/maps?cid=4114337096292287489