|
|
Article: Health clubs weigh liability risks as interest in fitness grows; Waivers help, but have been rejected in some California courts.(Sector Briefing: Sports & Leisure)
- Article from:
- Business Insurance
- Article date:
- February 4, 2008
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2008 Crain Communications, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
Byline: LOUISE ESOLA
As individuals strive to lead healthier lifestyles, health clubs and fitness centers have sprouted nationwide. But with growth, new risks are created, and the clubs are businesses already wrought with liability potholes, according to experts.
A dumbbell can drop on one's foot. A person could have a heart attack while running on the treadmill. Someone could slip and fall in the showers. The possibilities are endless, both legal and risk management experts say.
"They may have no control over someone misusing equipment, but they can be drawn into a lawsuit pretty quickly,'' said James Ropp, a Spokane, Wash.-based insurance ...