What Are the Basics of a Golf Cart Accident Claim?

Contrary to Popular Belief, Golf Cart Accident Can Be as Devastating as a Motor Vehicle Accident.

If you or a loved one were injured in a golf cart collision, help is available. Understand these basics about golf cart injury claims and what your next step should be.

1. What Is the Statue of Limitations on a Golf Cart Accident?

In the state of Florida, the statute of limitations on all personal injury claims — including motor vehicle and golf cart collisions — is four years. If you do not file a claim within four years, you generally lose the ability to file a claim at all.

2. Who Should the Lawsuit Be Against?

Typically, a golf cart accident claim should name the at-fault driver. However, there may be some cases where the driver and the owner of the cart is named, and some cases where just the owner is named. For example, if the golf cart owner was a parent and their underage child was driving the cart when the accident occurred, it would be the parent named in the lawsuit. In other cases, you may be able to name the owner of the property where the accident occurred. E.g., if a negligent golf course owner did not properly maintain their grounds and this is what caused the incident, they may be held liable.

3. How Do You Prove Your Case?

To successfully bring a claim against someone else for injury in Florida, you must prove:

• That the person named in your lawsuit owed a duty of care to you. For example, vehicle drivers always owe a duty of care to other drivers and pedestrians. Commercial property owners owe a duty of care to patrons.

• That the person named in your lawsuit was negligent and violated that duty of care. For example, you may be able to show evidence that the driver was not paying attention to their surroundings or the golf cart owner negligently allowed their underage child to drive the cart.

• That you directly suffered damages as a result of the accident. You will need to prove that the damages you incurred — such as medical expenses and lost wages — were directly caused by the golf cart accident.

4. What Should You Do Next?

After a golf cart collision harms you or a loved one, it’s important that you act quickly and contact an experienced Florida golf cart accident lawyer. Contact the Law Offices of Frank D. Butler today for a consultation by calling 1-800-253-2531.