Are you a student at Western Washington University (WWU) or planning to enroll? Then you may have come across the term “hold harmless agreement.” But what exactly is it, and why is it important? Let`s explore.

A hold harmless agreement is a legal contract between two parties that states one party (the “indemnitor”) will not hold the other party (the “indemnitee”) liable for any damages, losses, or injuries that may occur as a result of a particular activity or event. In the context of WWU, this agreement is typically required for students participating in certain programs or activities, such as study abroad programs, internships, or volunteer work.

The purpose of a hold harmless agreement is to protect both parties from potential legal liabilities. For example, if a student were to participate in a study abroad program and suffered an injury or illness, the hold harmless agreement would prevent them from suing the university for damages. On the other hand, the university would not be held liable for any harm or injury caused by the student during their participation in the program.

It is important to note that signing a hold harmless agreement does not waive a student`s right to seek compensation or legal action in the event of gross negligence or intentional harm. In other words, if the university were to act recklessly or intentionally cause harm to a student, the hold harmless agreement would not prevent the student from pursuing legal action.

If you are asked to sign a hold harmless agreement as a WWU student, it is important to read and understand the terms before signing. Make sure you are aware of the risks involved in the program or activity you are participating in and ask any questions you may have before signing on the dotted line. If you are unsure about any aspects of the agreement, consider seeking legal advice.

In conclusion, a hold harmless agreement is a common legal contract used to protect both parties from potential legal liabilities. As a student at WWU, it is important to understand the terms of any hold harmless agreements you are asked to sign and to ensure you are comfortable with the risks involved in any programs or activities you participate in. With this knowledge, you can make informed decisions and enjoy your time as a student at WWU.