Golf Cart Accident Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

If you or a loved one experienced serious injuries following a golf cart accident, you may be entitled to pursue compensation.

At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to negligent golf cart operations or defective golf cart designs. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Golf Cart Accident Lawsuit Overview

Golf cart accidents result in thousands of injuries annually across the United States.

These lawsuits primarily target golf cart manufacturers for design defects, operators for negligent driving, and property owners for inadequate safety measures.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 15,000 golf cart-related injuries require emergency room treatment each year.

Many of these incidents have led to serious injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and even fatalities.

Latest Golf Cart Lawsuit Updates

• April 2025 – A class-action lawsuit against major golf cart manufacturer EZ-GO reached a $12.5 million settlement for victims who experienced brake failures resulting in accidents and injuries. The settlement covers medical expenses and pain and suffering for over 300 victims nationwide.
• March 2025 – The Florida Supreme Court ruled that golf courses have a duty of care to ensure golf carts provided to customers meet all safety standards. This landmark decision opens new avenues for litigation against negligent course operators.
• January 2025 – A California jury awarded $2.3 million to a plaintiff who suffered permanent spine injuries after a golf cart rollover caused by a manufacturing defect in the vehicle’s stabilization system.
• November 2024 – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced new safety standards for golf carts used on public roads, creating stricter requirements for braking systems, stability controls, and passenger restraints.
• September 2024 – Club Car issued a recall for 25,000 golf carts manufactured between 2020-2023 due to acceleration pedal defects that could cause sudden, unintended acceleration.

Golf Cart Accident Statistics

Golf cart accidents have increased dramatically in recent years as these vehicles have become more common both on golf courses and in residential communities. Comprehensive research provides concerning statistics:

• 17,000 children under 18 are injured in golf-cart related accidents each year in the US alone
• Over 40% of golf cart injuries result from falls from moving vehicles
• 35% of golf cart injuries are considered serious or severe, requiring hospitalization
• Annual emergency room visits for golf cart accidents have increased by 132% since 2008
• Over 50% of serious golf cart accidents occur on streets or residential areas rather than golf courses
• Rollover accidents account for nearly 10% of all golf cart injuries but are responsible for over 40% of fatalities

These statistics demonstrate the significant dangers posed by golf carts, especially when used improperly or when manufactured with defects.

FDA Reports and Statistics

While the FDA does not directly regulate golf carts, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) tracks injuries related to these vehicles. According to their database:

• Approximately 15,000 golf cart-related injuries are treated in emergency rooms annually
• Children under 16 account for more than 30% of these injuries
• Fractures represent the most common serious injury, followed by head trauma
• Reports of brake failure and steering mechanism malfunctions have increased by 28% over the past five years

Golf Cart Injuries & Side Effects

Golf cart accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. The most common and serious injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries: Concussions, contusions, and more severe forms of TBI from impacts or ejections
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Partial or complete paralysis resulting from vertebrae damage during rollovers or collisions
• Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries: Broken bones, joint dislocations, and crush injuries from rollovers or impacts
• Soft Tissue Damage: Serious lacerations, contusions, and internal organ damage
• Amputation Injuries: Loss of limbs or digits from entrapment in moving parts or during rollovers
• Wrongful Death: Fatal injuries resulting from high-speed collisions, rollovers, or ejections

Related Articles:

• EZ-GO Golf Cart Recall
• 2010-2019 Garia Golf Cart Lawsuits
• 2020 Yamaha Drive2 Golf Carts Recall

See other product liability torts we’re currently taking.

Do You Qualify for a Golf Cart Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a golf cart accident lawsuit if:

• You were injured in a golf cart accident within the last 2-5 years (depending on your state’s statute of limitations)
• The accident resulted in significant injuries requiring medical treatment
• The accident was caused by a defective cart component, negligent operation, or inadequate warnings
• You can document your injuries and their connection to the golf cart accident
• You were using the golf cart in a reasonable and proper manner

Evidence Required for a Golf Cart Lawsuit

Building a strong golf cart accident case requires substantial documentation. Essential evidence includes:

• Medical records documenting your injuries and treatment
• Photographs of the accident scene and the golf cart involved
• Witness statements from people who saw the accident
• Maintenance records for the golf cart (if available)
• Expert testimony regarding defects or design flaws
• Documentation of expenses related to your injuries
• Proof of lost wages or diminished earning capacity

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of golf cart accidents may be entitled to recover several types of damages:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for all accident-related medical treatment, including future care
• Lost Income: Compensation for time missed from work and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional trauma
• Disability or Disfigurement: Compensation for permanent physical limitations or visible scarring
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for inability to participate in previously enjoyed activities
• Punitive Damages: Additional compensation in cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct

Golf Cart Recall Information

Several major golf cart manufacturers have issued recalls in recent years due to safety concerns:

Club Car (September 2024): Recalled 25,000 golf carts manufactured between 2020-2023 due to acceleration pedal defects that could cause sudden, unintended acceleration.

E-Z-GO (July 2024): Recalled 13,500 RXV and TXT models manufactured between 2021-2023 due to brake system failures that resulted in multiple reported injuries.

Yamaha (March 2024): Issued a recall for 8,200 Drive2 model golf carts due to steering column defects that could cause loss of vehicle control.

Evolution Electric Vehicles (January 2024): Recalled 3,400 lithium-battery powered carts due to fire hazards associated with battery management systems.

If you own or use a golf cart, check the manufacturer’s website or the CPSC website to verify if your model has been subject to a safety recall.

Statute of Limitations for Golf Cart Lawsuits

Time limits for filing golf cart accident lawsuits vary by state and the nature of your claim:

• Personal Injury Claims: Generally 1-6 years from the date of injury (2 years in most states)
• Product Liability Claims: Typically 2-4 years from the date of injury or discovery of defect
• Wrongful Death Claims: Usually 1-3 years from the date of death

Important considerations that may affect your timeframe:

• The “discovery rule” may extend the filing period if defects were not immediately apparent
• Claims against government entities (like municipal golf courses) often have shorter notice requirements (as little as 60-180 days)
• Minors injured in golf cart accidents may have extended time limits until they reach adulthood

Consulting with a qualified attorney promptly after an accident is crucial to protect your legal rights.

FAQs

1. Are There Specific Laws Concerning Golf Cart Usage on Public Roads?

Most states have enacted specific golf cart and low-speed vehicle laws regulating their use on public roads. These typically require safety features like headlights, taillights, turn signals, and seat belts for street use. Additionally, many jurisdictions impose age restrictions, prohibiting operators under 16 years from driving golf carts even on private property.

2. Who is Typically Found Legally Responsible Associated With Golf Cart Accidents?

Multiple parties may bear liability in golf cart accidents. Manufacturers can be held responsible for design or production defects. Golf course owners may be liable for improper maintenance or insufficient safety warnings. Operators face liability for negligent driving, while property owners could be responsible for allowing unsafe operation on their premises.

3. Can I File a Lawsuit if I Was a Passenger in a Golf Cart Accident?

Yes, passengers injured in golf cart accidents generally have strong legal claims. As a passenger, you typically bear no responsibility for operating the vehicle and may pursue claims against the driver, the golf cart manufacturer, the property owner, or other responsible parties depending on the accident circumstances.

4. What if the Golf Cart Accident Occurred on Private Property?

Golf cart accidents on private property remain viable for legal action. Property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises and may be liable under premises liability laws. Additionally, claims against golf cart manufacturers for defective products can proceed regardless of where the accident occurred.

5. How Much is My Golf Cart Accident Case Worth?

The value of golf cart accident claims varies widely based on injury severity, medical expenses, lost income, and long-term impacts. Minor injury cases typically settle for $10,000-$50,000, while severe injuries involving permanent disability may result in settlements exceeding $1 million. Your specific claim value depends on the strength of liability evidence and your documented damages.

6. Can I Still Pursue Compensation if I Signed a Waiver Before Using the Golf Cart?

While waivers may complicate claims, they don’t necessarily prevent you from seeking compensation. Courts often limit waiver enforcement when injuries result from gross negligence or defective equipment. Additionally, waivers signed by minors are frequently unenforceable. An experienced attorney can assess whether your specific waiver affects your legal options.

7. Do I Need an Attorney for a Golf Cart Accident Claim?

Securing qualified legal representation significantly improves outcomes in golf cart accident cases. These claims often involve complex liability issues, multiple potential defendants, and challenging insurance negotiations. An experienced attorney will properly investigate your accident, identify all liable parties, document damages comprehensively, and navigate critical legal deadlines.

8. How Long Will My Golf Cart Accident Case Take to Resolve?

Most golf cart accident claims settle within 8-18 months, though complex cases involving severe injuries or multiple parties may take longer. Factors affecting timeline include the investigation period, treatment duration, negotiation complexity, and whether litigation becomes necessary. Your attorney can provide a more specific estimate based on your unique circumstances.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action after a golf cart accident. Most states allow only 2 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and this period may be even shorter in certain jurisdictions or circumstances.

At Schmidt & Clark, we specialize in representing victims of golf cart accidents nationwide. Our services include:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• Thorough investigation of accident circumstances and liable parties
• No upfront costs or fees – we only get paid if we win your case
• Comprehensive representation against manufacturers, operators, and insurance companies
• Access to leading medical and engineering experts to strengthen your claim

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced legal team today.

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