Host Liability at a Books, Brunches & Booze Meet-Up
Understanding host liability involves many factors, and whether a host is personally liable in a specific situation depends on the details of that event. Below are general guidelines to help you assess your potential liability as a host.
1. Member Agreement to Terms of Service
All BB&B members agree to our Terms of Service, which include a liability release (see Section 6) stating that members release hosts from liability related to chapters and Meet-Ups/events. However, this agreement is between the member and Books, Brunches & Booze®, not directly between the member and the host.
If a host would like an additional layer of protection, they may consider having attendees sign a personal release or waiver. This creates a direct agreement between the host and the attendee.
2. No Guests Policy
Only verified BB&B members should attend official Meet-Ups or events. Guests who have not agreed to the Terms of Service are not covered by the existing release, and therefore increase a host’s potential liability. For this reason, bringing non-member guests is prohibited.
3. High-Risk or Specialized Activities
The standard Terms of Service contain a general liability release and may not cover activities that are inherently high-risk or outside typical BB&B events.
If your chapter hosts events involving activities like hiking, physical exertion, or specialized instruction, you should consider using an additional waiver that specifically addresses the risks of that activity.
4. Hosting as an Individual vs. Legal Entity
Liability may also depend on who is organizing the event:
If you are hosting as an individual, you may be personally liable for issues that arise.
If you host through a registered business or legal entity, that entity may bear the liability, depending on the type of entity and its protections.
The legal form of your chapter or event organization matters. You may wish to consult an attorney if you're unsure of your status.
5. Representing Your Skills or Role
Your liability may increase based on how you present your role. For example, if you claim to be a trained expert (e.g., a certified mountaineer or fitness instructor) and lead an activity in that capacity, you may be held to a different standard of responsibility than a casual organizer.
6. Creating Your Own Liability Waiver
Hosts may create and distribute their own release or waiver forms. These should be tailored to the event and ideally reviewed by legal counsel to ensure they’re enforceable and appropriate for the activity involved.
Disclaimer
This information is intended as general guidance and does not constitute legal advice. Liability laws vary by state and by situation. For questions about your specific circumstances, you should consult a licensed attorney.