West Virginia § 20-14-9 - 20-14-9. Limiting liability.

Full text of West Virginia West Virginia Code § 20-14-9 — 20-14-9. Limiting liability., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 20-14-9. 20-14-9. Limiting liability.

(a) An owner of land used by, or for the stated purposes of, the Hatfield-McCoy Regional Recreation Authority, whether with or without charge, owes no duty of care to keep the premises safe for entry or use by others for recreational purposes or to give any warning of a dangerous or hazardous condition, use, structure or activity on the premises to persons entering for those purposes.

(b) Unless otherwise agreed in writing, an owner who grants a lease, easement or license of land to the authority for recreational purposes, whether with or without charge, owes no duty of care to keep that land safe for entry or use by others or to give warning to persons entering or going upon the land of any dangerous or hazardous conditions, uses, structures or activities thereon. An owner who grants a lease, easement or license of land to the authority for recreational purposes does not by giving a lease, easement or license: (1) Extend any assurance to any person using the land that the premises are safe for any purpose; (2) confer upon those persons the legal status of an invitee or licensee to whom a duty of care is owed; or (3) assume responsibility for or incur liability for any injury to person or property caused by an act or omission of a person who enters upon the leased land. The provisions of this section apply whether the person entering upon the land is an invitee, licensee, trespasser or otherwise.

(c) Nothing herein limits in any way any liability which otherwise exists for deliberate, willful or malicious infliction of injury to persons or property: Provided, That nothing herein limits in any way the obligation of a person entering upon or using the land of another for recreational purposes to exercise due care in his or her use of the land and in his or her activities thereon, so as to prevent the creation of hazards or the commission of waste by himself or herself.

Source: official West Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About West Virginia § 20-14-9

What does West Virginia Code § 20-14-9 cover?

Section 20-14-9 ("20-14-9. Limiting liability.") is part of the West Virginia Code, the codified statutory law of West Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite West Virginia § 20-14-9?

A common citation format is "West Virginia Code § 20-14-9" (West Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of West Virginia law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the West Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed West Virginia attorney.

How does West Virginia § 20-14-9 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in West Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in West Virginia.