I was taking a “Run and Gun” tactical course. While moving between barriers, I tripped, tore my ACL, and caught a ricochet fragment in my calf. I faced $15,000 in medical bills. I signed a waiver at the start of class. Does the range’s insurance pay, or mine?
Key Takeaways
- Waivers are Strong: That waiver you signed releases the range and instructor from liability for “negligence.” Unless they were grossly negligent (e.g., drunk instructor), you can’t sue them.
- Medical Payments (MedPay): Good ranges carry “Accident Medical” insurance for students. This pays your out-of-pocket deductibles regardless of fault. Ask the range: “Do you have participant accident coverage?”
- Your Health Insurance is Primary: Your personal health insurance pays first. The range insurance (if any) is secondary.
- CCW Insurance is Irrelevant: USCCA/US Law Shield do not cover you getting hurt. They cover you shooting someone else.
The “Why” (The Trap)
The trap is “Assumption of Risk.”
By taking a tactical class, you legally assume the risk of injury. Courts rarely award damages for twisted ankles or ricochets in a high-risk activity you volunteered for.
The Investigation (I Asked Instructors)
- Range Policy: “We have General Liability. It defends us if you sue. It doesn’t write you a check for your knee surgery unless you win the lawsuit (which you won’t, because of the waiver).”
- Student Coverage: Some high-end classes include a short-term accident policy. Most don’t.
Comparison Table
| Injury Source | Who Pays? | Action |
| You trip (ACL) | Your Health Insurance | Pay Deductible |
| Ricochet (Minor) | You / Range MedPay (Rare) | First Aid |
| Instructor Shoots You | Range Liability Insurance | Sue for Gross Negligence |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Ask Before Booking: “Does your insurance include ‘Participant Accident Coverage’?” If yes, they cover your deductible. If no, you are on your own.
- Report Injury Immediately: Do not leave the range without an “Incident Report.” If you leave and claim it later, they will deny it.
- [IMAGE: Photo of a range ‘Incident Report’ form]
- Check Your Disability Insurance: If the ACL tear keeps you out of work, your Short Term Disability policy handles the income loss.
FAQ
Does the waiver cover everything?
No. Waivers cannot release liability for “Gross Negligence” or “Recklessness.”
What if another student shoots me?
You sue that student. Their homeowners liability should cover it.