Templates / Go-karts & motorsport
Go-karts & motorsport waiver template.
Free starting-point wording for New Zealand go-karts & motorsport operators. Copy it, or have it live as a digital form in about a minute.
Use this as a digital form, free →Karting participant acknowledgement
Karting is motorsport. Karts are quick, low to the ground, and contact between karts and barriers happens. Please read this and take the driver briefing seriously.
The risks
- Collisions with other karts and with barriers, which can cause whiplash, bruising, fractures or more serious injury.
- Burns from hot engine and exhaust components.
- Loose clothing or long hair becoming caught in moving parts.
The rules
- Helmets must be worn and fastened. Long hair must be tied up and tucked away, and loose clothing secured.
- Enclosed footwear is required.
- No deliberate bumping or dangerous driving. Obey all flags, lights and marshals.
- Stay seated in your kart until a marshal tells you to get out.
- No alcohol or drugs before driving.
Acknowledgement
- I have read and understood the risks and rules above, and I have had the chance to ask questions.
- I am taking part voluntarily and I will follow the instructions of staff at all times.
- The information I have given is true, and I have disclosed any medical condition or injury that could affect my safety or the safety of others.
- For each person under 18 listed below: I am their parent or legal guardian (or I am authorised by their parent or guardian to sign for them), and I consent to them taking part on the same terms.
I understand that Your Business takes reasonable care to run this activity safely, that it cannot remove every risk, and that I am responsible for my own behaviour and for following the rules. Nothing in this form limits any rights I have under New Zealand law that cannot be excluded, including ACC cover.
Why it's worded this way
You'll notice it doesn't say "I release the operator from all liability". In New Zealand, ACC covers personal injury and people generally can't sue for compensation for injuries ACC covers, and an operator can't sign away its health and safety duties. So a sweeping American-style release adds little here and can look like you're hiding something. What's useful is a clear record that the person was told the risks, agreed to the rules, and gave you the medical and emergency details you need. More in the plain-English guide.
Not legal advice. This is a starting point. Swap "Your Business" for your name, change anything that doesn't match how you operate, and have the final version checked by your lawyer or insurer.