Participant Waiver, Release of Liability & Assumption of Risk

Last updated: March 2026. This waiver is intended to be enforceable across all 48 contiguous United States and includes state-specific provisions where required by law.

1. Acknowledgment of Risk

I, the undersigned participant (“Participant”), acknowledge that motorcycle riding, group motorcycle tours, and related activities (collectively, “the Activity”) are inherently dangerous and involve risks of serious bodily injury, permanent disability, paralysis, and death. These risks include, but are not limited to:

• Collisions with vehicles, objects, pedestrians, or other riders
• Road hazards including gravel, potholes, debris, oil, wet surfaces, and uneven pavement
• Weather conditions including rain, fog, wind, extreme heat, and reduced visibility
• Mechanical failure of motorcycle or safety equipment
• Actions or negligence of other riders, motorists, or third parties
• Riding at high speeds on public roadways
• Physical fatigue, dehydration, or medical emergencies during the ride

I understand and voluntarily accept all risks associated with participating in the Activity, including risks that are not specifically identified above.

2. Release and Waiver of Liability

In consideration of being permitted to participate in the Activity, I hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue Eli Buss (individually and d/b/a Seamless Gutter SLAYERSand d/b/a Ride with Eli), his agents, employees, volunteers, affiliates, sponsors, and any co-organizers (collectively, “Released Parties”) from any and all liability, claims, demands, causes of action, and damages arising out of or related to my participation in the Activity, including but not limited to claims based on negligence, gross negligence (to the extent permitted by applicable state law), breach of warranty, or breach of contract.

This release applies to personal injury, property damage, wrongful death, and any other loss or damage of any kind, whether known or unknown, foreseen or unforeseen.

3. Assumption of Risk

I expressly assume all risks of the Activity, both known and unknown, including those risks arising from the negligence of the Released Parties or others, and assume full responsibility for my participation. I certify that I am physically fit and have no medical condition that would prevent my safe participation.

4. Indemnification

I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Released Parties from any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorney's fees) arising from my participation in the Activity, including claims brought by third parties as a result of my actions or omissions during the Activity.

5. Zero Tolerance Alcohol & Substance Policy

Absolutely no alcohol or impairing substances may be consumed before or during any riding event. I understand and agree that:

• This policy is strictly enforced with zero tolerance — no exceptions
• If I am found to have consumed alcohol or any impairing substance before or during the event, I will be immediately ejected from the ride
• If I refuse to disengage from the event or refuse to surrender my motorcycle keys,law enforcement will be contacted immediately
• Safety and sobriety are absolute prerequisites for high-speed group riding
• I will not operate my motorcycle under the influence of any prescription medication that impairs my ability to ride safely

I acknowledge that violation of this policy constitutes grounds for permanent removal from all future Ride with Eli events without refund of any donations made.

6. Participant Registration Requirements

I understand and agree to the following registration requirements:

• My full legal name, current address, and date of birth must be submitted at least 72 hours prior to the event
• I must present a valid government-issued photo ID at the event
• I must possess a valid motorcycle license or endorsement for the state in which the event takes place
• My motorcycle must be currently registered, insured, and in safe operating condition
• I must wear a DOT-approved helmet in all states requiring helmet use, and I am strongly encouraged to wear one in all states regardless of legal requirement
• I must carry proof of motorcycle insurance meeting or exceeding the minimum liability requirements of the state(s) in which the ride takes place

7. Overnight & Multi-Day Events

For overnight or multi-day riding events, I understand that Eli Buss's accommodations (including lodging and meals) are to be covered by the participating group in addition to any charitable donation. The charitable donation remains 100% forwarded to the designated children's charity.

8. Charitable Nature of Event

I understand that Ride with Eli events are organized for charitable purposes. All monetary donations are forwarded in their entirety to children's charities. Eli Buss does not receive compensation from donations. Donations are voluntary and non-refundable. Ride with Eli is not a registered 501(c)(3) organization, and donations may not be tax-deductible.

9. Medical Authorization

In the event of an emergency, I authorize the Released Parties to secure emergency medical treatment, transportation, and procedures as they deem necessary. I understand that I am solely responsible for all medical costs and expenses incurred.

10. Photo & Media Release

I grant the Released Parties permission to use photographs, video, audio recordings, and other media taken during the Activity for promotional, educational, and charitable purposes without compensation or further consent.

11. Governing Law & Dispute Resolution

This agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Tennessee, without regard to its conflict of laws principles. Any dispute arising out of or related to this agreement or the Activity shall be resolved exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Knox County, Tennessee. The Participant consents to the personal jurisdiction of such courts.

12. Severability

If any provision of this agreement is found to be unenforceable or invalid under applicable law, that provision shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it enforceable, or if modification is not possible, it shall be severed from this agreement. All remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect.

13. Private Motorcycle Repair Services

Eli Buss may, at his sole discretion, offer limited motorcycle repair, maintenance, or custom work services to past or present participants of Ride with Eli charitable events. By accepting any such services, the Participant acknowledges and agrees to the following:

• No Warranty. All motorcycle repair or custom work performed by Eli Buss is provided “as-is” with no warranty of any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
• No Certifications. Eli Buss does not hold any professional mechanic certifications, ASE certifications, or manufacturer-authorized repair credentials. Any repair work is performed based on 25+ years of personal riding and motorcycle maintenance experience.
• Private Arrangement Only. Any repair agreement between Eli Buss and a Participant is a private, personal arrangement. The Participant expressly agrees that they shall not advertise, publicize, disclose, or otherwise make known to the public domain any repair services performed by Eli Buss — including but not limited to social media posts, online reviews, public forums, or word-of-mouth solicitation on Eli's behalf.
• Assumption of Risk. The Participant assumes all risk associated with any motorcycle repair or custom work performed and releases the Released Parties from any and all claims arising from such services, including claims related to mechanical failure, property damage, or personal injury.
• Eligibility. These services are available exclusively to past or present participants of a Ride with Eli charitable event. They are not available to the general public and are not a commercial offering of Seamless Gutter SLAYERS.

14. Entire Agreement

This document constitutes the entire agreement between the Participant and the Released Parties regarding the subject matter herein. No oral or written representations, statements, or inducements apart from this agreement have been made. This agreement may not be modified except in writing signed by both parties.

Appendix A: State-Specific Provisions

The following provisions apply to participants residing in or events held in the states listed below. These provisions supplement (and where they conflict, supersede) the general waiver language above to the extent required by applicable state law.

California

Participant expressly waives the protections of California Civil Code Section 1542, which provides: “A general release does not extend to claims that the creditor or releasing party does not know or suspect to exist in his or her favor at the time of executing the release and that, if known by him or her, would have materially affected his or her settlement with the debtor or released party.” Participant understands that this waiver means that this release applies to all claims, including those not currently known.

Connecticut

To the extent Connecticut law limits the enforceability of pre-injury releases for recreational activities, this agreement shall be construed as a voluntary assumption of risk by the Participant. Nothing in this agreement is intended to release the Released Parties from liability for reckless or intentional misconduct.

Louisiana

This agreement is intended to be an enforceable waiver to the fullest extent permitted under Louisiana law. Participant acknowledges that Louisiana Civil Code Article 2004 prohibits limitations on liability for intentional or grossly negligent conduct, and this release does not purport to waive such claims.

Montana

Pursuant to Montana law, this release does not apply to gross negligence or willful and wanton misconduct. The Participant's assumption of risk applies to ordinary negligence only.

New York

This waiver complies with New York General Obligations Law Section 5-326. The Activity is voluntary and not a “place of amusement or recreation” within the meaning of Section 5-326, as it takes place on public roads and is not operated as a commercial facility. Participant assumes all risk of injury from participation.

Oregon

Under Oregon law (ORS 30.687), this agreement constitutes a release and shall be enforceable as a complete defense to any claim for negligence. Participant has had a reasonable opportunity to review this agreement and signs it voluntarily.

Virginia

Virginia recognizes express assumption of risk and pre-injury releases for voluntary recreational activities. This agreement is intended to serve as both an express assumption of risk and a release of liability to the fullest extent permitted by Virginia law. Virginia's contributory negligence standard applies.

West Virginia

Pursuant to West Virginia law, this release is enforceable for claims of ordinary negligence in voluntary recreational activities. This release does not apply to claims arising from gross negligence, recklessness, or intentional conduct.

Helmet Law Notice

Motorcycle helmet laws vary by state. Regardless of state law, all Ride with Eli participants are strongly encouraged to wear DOT-approved helmets at all times. The following states require helmets for all riders as of the date of this waiver: Alabama, California, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia. Additional states require helmets for riders under certain ages. It is each Participant's sole responsibility to know and comply with the helmet laws of the state(s) in which the ride occurs.

Insurance Minimums

Each Participant must carry motorcycle liability insurance meeting or exceeding the minimum requirements of the state(s) in which the ride takes place. Proof of insurance must be carried during the ride. Participants are solely responsible for verifying their coverage meets applicable state minimums.

Participant Acknowledgment

By signing this waiver, I acknowledge that:

• I have read this entire document and understand its contents
• I am at least 18 years of age (or have parental/guardian consent)
• I sign this agreement voluntarily and without coercion
• I understand I am giving up substantial legal rights
• I agree to be bound by all terms, conditions, and policies stated herein
• I have had the opportunity to consult with legal counsel before signing

This document is provided for informational purposes and has not been reviewed by a licensed attorney. Eli Buss and Seamless Gutter SLAYERS recommend that all participants consult with their own legal counsel. This waiver should be reviewed by a qualified attorney before use in any specific state.