North Carolina is a golfer’s paradise — with its mild, subtropical climate, there’s practically year-round access to the green. But what happens when a day on the links spills over into a day in court?
Specifically, what are your rights if a golf ball hits your car?
Let’s break it down.
🚗 A Golf Ball Cracks Your Windshield — Who Pays?
Imagine you’re driving past a golf course, and suddenly SMASH! A golf ball flies out of nowhere and shatters your windshield. Is the golfer at fault? Can you sue the golf course? Or are you stuck filing a claim with your own insurance?
Under North Carolina law, the answer depends on one big word: negligence.
For a free legal consultation, call (980) 246-2656
⚖️ What the Law Says
There’s a key case from the North Carolina Supreme Court (1968) which says:
“A golfer must exercise ordinary care for the safety of others when hitting a golf ball.”
That means if a golfer is negligent — say, they hit a shot without checking their surroundings, or they intentionally hit into a crowded area — they can be held liable for any injuries or property damage.
But there’s a catch…
❌ An “Errant Shot” Usually Isn’t Enough
Most stray golf balls are just that — accidents. If a golfer tries to hit down the fairway but hooks the ball into traffic by mistake, that alone doesn’t usually count as negligence.
In cases like that, your best bet may be to file a claim with your own auto insurance. Comprehensive coverage typically includes damage from flying objects (like golf balls).
Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today
🏌️♀️ When the Golf Course Might Be Liable
There are situations where a golf course (or its management) could be on the hook. Here’s an example:
In western North Carolina, a gas station sat across the street from a golf hole that curved to the right (a “dogleg right”). It became a known issue that golfers overshooting the bend were hitting cars at the station.
ventually, the gas station owner made a claim — and the golf course was found liable for failing to address a repeated, foreseeable hazard.
Bottom line: if the golf course knows there‘s a recurring danger and doesn’t take steps to fix it, they may be legally responsible.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
⛳ Hitting Other Golfers: A Different Story
If you’re out on the course and strike another golfer with your ball, you absolutely can be held liable — especially if you didn’t give a proper warning.
Golf etiquette (and common sense) says:
- Don’t hit into golfers ahead of you
- Yell “Fore!” if your ball might strike someone
- Wait until others are out of range
Failing to warn someone could lead to a personal injury claim if they get hurt.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Golf May Be a Game, But Liability Isn’t
Whether you’re a golfer or just driving by a course, it’s important to know your rights — and your responsibilities.
If you’ve suffered property damage or personal injury due to a golf ball — whether from a golfer, a course, or another player — you may have legal options.
Have questions? We’re here to help. Call us any time at 980-999-9999.
Call or text (980) 246-2656 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
