Omavastutusel

Omavastutusel is an Estonian adverb meaning "at one's own risk" or "under one's own responsibility." It is used to indicate that the person bears the consequences of a decision, action, or use of a service or product, rather than the provider or organizer. In legal and consumer contexts it often appears in disclaimers, waivers, or notices that shift liability to the user.

Etymology and form: The word is formed from oma (one's own) and vastutus (responsibility) with the adverbial suffix -sel, yielding the sense "in a state of one's own responsibility." It is primarily used in Estonian and appears in both formal and semi-formal communication, including contracts, guidelines, and safety notices.

Usage and examples: Omavastutusel is commonly found in notices accompanying activities, products, or online services. It signals that the user accepts potential risks. Examples include: "Kasutamine on omavastutusel" ("Use is at your own risk") and "Osalejad tegutsevad omavastutusel" ("Participants act at their own risk"). In practice, it limits the liability of organizers, service providers, or manufacturers, while emphasizing user responsibility.

Related context: The term is often paired with disclaimers or safety warnings and is part of broader risk communication. While closely tied to consumer protection language, it is a distinct Estonian expression that conveys personal accountability in the face of potential danger, loss, or undesired outcomes.

See also: liability waivers, risk notices, disclaimers, Estonian legal vocabulary.