Bill > SB595

This bill creates the Mountain Bike Responsibility Act, which establishes a comprehensive legal framework for mountain biking activities in West Virginia, focusing on defining the responsibilities and potential liabilities of trail system operators, mountain bicyclists, and aerial passenger tramway passengers. The legislation recognizes mountain biking as an important economic activity while explicitly acknowledging the inherent risks of the sport. It requires trail system operators to maintain trail boards, mark trails with difficulty levels, follow industry safety standards, establish emergency plans, and carry liability insurance, while simultaneously defining the responsibilities of mountain bicyclists to understand and assume risks associated with the sport. The bill outlines specific duties for each party, including requirements for trail maintenance, safety signage, and personal conduct, and provides guidelines for liability in case of accidents. Key provisions include mandating that mountain bicyclists ride within their abilities, heed posted warnings, and take responsibility for collisions, while trail system operators must ensure reasonable safety measures but are not liable for certain inherent risks of the sport. The bill also includes provisions for competition events and allows parents or guardians to execute releases for minor participants, thereby creating a clear legal framework that balances safety considerations with the recreational and economic benefits of mountain biking.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=595&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill