Release of Liability (Waiver)

In most states, yes, for claims of ordinary negligence — provided the release is clearly written, prominently presented, and names the specific risks rather than gesturing at them. Courts routinely refuse to enforce vague or buried waivers. None of them shield a business from gross negligence, recklessness, or intentional acts.

A parent can validly release their own claims, such as claims for the child's medical expenses. Whether they can waive the child's own future claim for injury is a different question, and some states limit or refuse to enforce a pre-injury parental waiver on the theory that the claim belongs to the child. Still have parents sign, but do not treat it as complete protection where minors are involved.

No. A waiver is an ordinary contract, and the participant's signature is enough; electronic signatures are valid under the federal ESIGN Act and state UETA laws. What matters far more is that the participant actually had a chance to read it, so present it on its own rather than buried in a registration packet, and keep signed copies on file for at least as long as your state's personal-injury limitations period.