Mountain Bike Responsibility Act

SB 142, the Mountain Bike Responsibility Act, requires commercial trail operators in West Virginia to follow specific safety and liability protocols for mountain biking. It mandates operators to mark trail difficulty, maintain emergency response plans, and post a clear warning notice stating that mountain bikers assume inherent risks (including injury or death) and must take precautions to avoid harm. The bill applies only to commercial entities operating mountain bike trails (excluding public or non-profit organizations) and specifies that operators aren't liable for injuries caused by natural terrain features, equipment failure, or other inherent risks. Key provisions include standardized trail signage, emergency response requirements, and a mandatory liability waiver notice at trail entrances.