Golf Course Accident Claim *

Every golfer is prone to hitting a shot astray every so often. A golf ball travelling at an accelerated speed can land a serious injury on a person. It is estimated that in recent years 10 people have lost an eye due to a golf course related accident in Ireland which included 7 adults and 3 children. If you have suffered an injury on a golf course where you consider was caused by the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to seek a legal remedy.

Golf course safety requirements

Under the legislation of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 a golf course has a duty to care for all people who are present on the course. This can include players, club members, employees and spectators. One duty the course must carry out is to erect safety nets where a ball might be miss-hit and cause injury to a person. If this is not possible due to a large open space plenty of signs should be displayed warning individuals to be careful. Every golf course must regularly carry out risk assessments in an attempt to identify and eliminate the threat of danger. When a golf course fails to carry out these duties of care they may be held liable if an injury occurs.

Common Injuries

• Broken bones
• Head injury
• Eye injury
• Nerve injury
• Neck injury

Causes

Hindered vision:  This is the most common cause of golf course injuries. Often the player hitting the ball is obstructed due to the landscape, trees or the sun blocking their eye-line. The individual is unaware that they’re causing a dangerous threat to the player ahead.

No vocal warning: It is written in the golfing rulebook that a player is to shout ‘fore’ when a ball is travelling in the proximity of another player. If a player is struck by a ball without any warning, then the muted party may be considered negligent.

Inexperienced players: It is common for a player who is new to the game of golf to cause an accident. This is purely based on their lack of experience and understanding of the rules and waiting time involved when playing a round of golf.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CASE

If you would like to find out more information on this topic or on the claims process you can contact our solicitors on 01 649 9900 or email ask@traceysolicitors.ie.

With over 30 years’ experience, Tracey Solicitors ensure not to overwhelm you with legal jargon and can provide you with legal advice and guidance with your best interest at heart, in a language that you can understand.