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TBI Steps out with online safety

TBI, the Tees Valley's largest law firm, is assisting a North East charity which helps hill walkers stay safe.

TBI helped the charity with preparations for the launch of My Trips, a website where hill walkers in the North East register detailed information of their planned route and intentions.  In the event of an accident, the website will provide emergency services with access to information which could ultimately save lives.

The My Trips website, www.mytrips.org.uk, is a free service provided by the charity Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team.  TBI's Commercial and IT Law specialists advised the charity on the legal impact and effect of the website.  The firm created bespoke website legals for the site, enabling the charity to stipulate exactly how the service will work and what users can expect.

John Little, from My Trips, said: "While walkers must take responsibility for themselves, people using the site are aware of the vital role it could play in the event of an accident.  However, in an increasingly litigious society, it is pivotal to the success of the site that its responsibilities and liability are controlled.

"We contacted the specialist IT Law and Intellectual Property department of TBI to help us prepare bespoke terms and conditions for the site, so users are immediately clear about how the service works, what it offers and what is expected of them."

Craig Malarkey, e-commerce specialist with TBI, said:

"My Trips is an essential tool for use by walkers across the North East.  By simply and quickly uploading details of a planned excursion, walkers are safe in the knowledge that if they are involved in an accident, the emergency services have access to relevant information which will direct them in the most appropriate direction."

"My Trips will undoubtedly be of great assistance to the emergency services, and the vital time saved by using the information could ultimately save lives.  TBI is a passionate supporter of businesses and people in the North East."

Notes:

Teesdale & Weardale Search & Mountain Rescue Team is affiliated to Mountain Rescue – England and Wales.  The charity provides a search and rescue service throughout County Durham, primarily for the police but also for the other emergency services.  All team members are volunteers.  For further information, visit www.twsmrt.org.uk .

Photo caption (see attached jpeg):John Little of My Trips logs on with Craig Malarkey of TBI Solicitors, with David Bartles-Smith of Teesdale and Weardale Search and Rescue Team at the wheel