Golf Cart Accident

Experienced Golf Cart Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a golf cart accident in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois, understanding your legal rights is essential. While golf carts may seem harmless, they can cause serious injuries when used on a golf course, public road, or private property. Due to their lack of safety features, such as seatbelts and airbags, many golf cart accidents result in severe harm, from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries.

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our experienced Chicago golf cart accident lawyers have successfully represented victims across Cook County, DuPage County, and surrounding areas, helping them recover losses for medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. Whether your accident occurred at a golf course in Naperville, a gated community in Schaumburg, or on a public road in downtown Chicago, we are here to fight for your rights.

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win. Contact us today for a free evaluation and let us help you navigate your legal options.

Recent Golf Cart Accident Settlements

Our law firm has successfully handled numerous golf cart accident claims, recovering millions for injury victims:

• $3,000,000 – A man attending a charity event in Lincoln Park suffered extensive leg fractures after being hit by a golf cart.
• $1,900,000 – A passenger ejected from a moving golf cart on a course in Oak Brook sustained severe injuries.
• $1,500,000 – A child fell from the rear of a golf cart at a summer camp near the North Shore, leading to significant injuries.
• $500,000 – A woman attending a private event in the Gold Coast fractured her foot after falling from a golf cart.
• $475,000 – A man walking through a parking lot in the Loop was struck by a golf cart at a charity function.
• $360,000 – A child riding in a golf cart operated by a family friend in Naperville was ejected and suffered a fractured arm.

You may still have a claim even if you didn’t sustain serious injuries. Contact us now to speak with an experienced golf cart accident lawyer and explore your legal rights.

Common Causes of Golf Cart Accidents in Chicago

Reckless Driving and Speeding

Excessive speeds, sharp turns, and aggressive maneuvers make golf carts prone to rollovers and collisions. These incidents are particularly common on golf courses in Naperville, Oak Brook, and Glenview, where terrain variations can amplify risks.

Intoxicated Driving and DUIs

Golf cart operators driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are a major safety hazard. Under Illinois law, golf carts are considered vehicles, meaning DUI penalties apply to those caught driving impaired.

Golf Cart Rollovers

Due to their small wheels and lightweight design, golf carts can easily tip over, especially when overloaded with passengers or navigating uneven surfaces. Rollovers frequently occur in golf resorts, retirement communities, and city parks.

Collisions with Motor Vehicles

Some golf carts share public roads in suburban areas like Hinsdale and Arlington Heights, where they may be struck by larger vehicles. These crashes often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protective structures in golf carts.

Poor Maintenance and Mechanical Failures

Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to brake failures, steering malfunctions, and battery issues, increasing the risk of golf cart accidents. A golf cart manufacturer or rental company may be liable if defects contribute to an accident.

Pedestrian Accidents

Golf carts frequently operate in pedestrian-heavy areas like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and private event venues. Distracted golf cart drivers may fail to see walkers, leading to serious injuries.

Most Common Golf Cart Accident Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Without seatbelts or enclosed cabins, passengers ejected from a golf cart can suffer head trauma, concussions, or long-term brain injuries.

Broken Bones and Fractures

The impact of a cart accident can cause fractured arms, legs, ribs, and hips, particularly if the victim is thrown from the vehicle.

Spinal Cord and Neck Injuries

Golf cart rollovers and side-impact collisions can lead to whiplash, herniated discs, or even paralysis in severe cases.

Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage

Crashes involving golf carts and pedestrians—or instances where a person is pinned beneath a tipped vehicle—can result in internal injuries requiring emergency surgery.

Cuts, Bruises, and Soft Tissue Injuries

Even low-speed golf cart accidents can lead to deep lacerations, muscle tears, and contusions, requiring physical therapy and extended recovery time.

Wrongful Death Claims

Sadly, some golf cart accidents result in fatalities. If your loved one was killed due to reckless driving, intoxicated operators, or mechanical failure, you may have grounds for a wrongful death claim in Chicago or other parts of Illinois.

If you or a loved one has suffered any of these injuries due to a golf cart accident, contact our Chicago golf cart accident lawyers today for a free case evaluation to explore your legal options.

Illinois Golf Cart Laws & Legal Considerations

Are Golf Carts Legal on Chicago Roads?

In Illinois, golf carts are permitted on roadways with posted speed limits of 35 mph or lower. However, they are prohibited from operating on streets with higher speed limits, except for crossing at intersections. (Illinois General Assembly)

Do You Need Liability Insurance?

Yes. Under Article VI of Chapter 7 of the applicable code, a golf cart driver is required to have insurance on the vehicle. This is in addition to other street legal requirements that must be met including:

• Headlights, taillights, and turn signals for visibility
• Rearview mirror for safe navigation
• Brakes and a reliable braking system
• Seat belts for all passengers
• Slow-moving vehicle emblem displayed
• Horn for warning pedestrians and other vehicles
• Valid driver’s license for the operator

What Happens If You Damage a Golf Cart?

If another party causes damage to your golf cart, their insurance company may be responsible for covering the repair costs. However, if you are at fault, you may be liable for damages, and your insurance policy may or may not cover golf cart incidents, depending on your coverage. If you are in an accident, speaking with a golf cart accident attorney about your specific circumstances is always a good idea.

Does Car Insurance Cover Golf Cart Accidents?

Standard auto insurance policies typically do not cover golf cart accidents. However, some insurers offer specialized policies or endorsements that include golf cart coverage. It’s advisable to consult with your insurance provider to understand your policy’s specifics.

What If You Signed a Waiver?

Signing a waiver, especially when renting a golf cart, may limit your ability to claim damages. However, waivers do not always absolve all liability, particularly in cases of gross negligence. It is essential to have such waivers reviewed by a golf cart accident lawyer to understand their implications.

Statute of Limitations in Illinois

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those arising from golf cart accidents, is generally two years from the accident date. This means you have a two-year window to file a lawsuit; otherwise, you may forfeit your right to obtain rightful compensation. Property damage claims must be filed within 5 years.

If you need legal assistance with your golf cart accident case, contact our Chicago golf cart accident lawyers today for a free evaluation to explore your legal options.

Who Is Liable in a Golf Cart Accident?

Determining liability is key. Possible responsible parties include:

Golf Cart Operators

Negligent golf cart operators who drive recklessly, fail to follow traffic laws, or operate while intoxicated can be held responsible when an accident occurs. Liability extends to drivers who disregard golf course safety rules, putting others at risk.

Golf Cart Owners

Golf cart owners who fail to properly maintain their vehicles can be liable for accidents that happen due to mechanical failures. Proper upkeep is necessary to ensure the golf cart meets safety standards and operates correctly.

Property Owners

A property owner, including a golf course or resort manager, may bear responsibility if unsafe conditions on their premises contribute to an accident. Failing to provide proper signage, maintain pathways, or enforce safety rules can make them liable.

Golf Cart Manufacturers

A manufacturer can be held accountable if a design flaw, brake failure, or steering defect causes an accident. Victims of defective carts may file a claim to seek compensation for their suffered injuries and their expenses for medical care.

Other At-Fault Parties

In some cases, a motor vehicle driver or another party may be responsible for a golf cart accident. If an auto driver is negligent or ignores traffic laws, victims can pursue claims through their insurance companies.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a golf cart accident, our lawyers can help determine liability and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your legal options, protect your rights, and ensure your surviving family members receive justice.

How to Maximize Your Golf Cart Accident Case Value

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Your health comes first. Even if injuries seem minor, getting checked by a doctor ensures that all suffered injuries are documented, which is critical when dealing with insurance companies.

Report the Accident

Notify the property owner, golf course manager, or local authorities as soon as the accident occurs. A formal report can strengthen your claim and help determine liability.

Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene

Take detailed photos of the accident scene, including any vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. If possible, collect contact information from witnesses who saw how the accident happened.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Refrain from making statements that could be interpreted as accepting blame. Let a personal an experienced lawyer analyze the details and build your case.

Consult a Golf Cart Accident Lawyer

Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer ensures that you understand your legal options. A lawyer can help you seek compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering while dealing with insurance companies on your behalf.

Preserve All Medical Records and Expenses

Document all treatments, hospital visits, and any long-term rehabilitation needs. Keeping track of your medical bills strengthens your claim and helps avoid paying out-of-pocket for expenses related to the accident.

Consider Future Damages

If your injuries result in long-term impairment, lost earning potential, or ongoing medical treatment, your case should reflect these future costs. A personal injury lawyer can ensure your accident claim accounts for all potential damages.

How Much Is My Golf Cart Accident Case Worth?

The value of a golf cart claim varies based on several factors. Understanding what impacts compensation can help you maximize your case value.

Medical Expenses

Your claim should cover all medical costs, including emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medication, and long-term rehabilitation. Keeping records of all medical treatments strengthens your claim.

Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity

You may be entitled to compensation for lost income if you’ve missed work due to your injuries. In cases where injuries affect future earning potential, victims can recover damages for reduced earning capacity. Your personal injury lawyer can help you calculate these loses.

Pain and Suffering

Beyond medical bills and lost income, victims may claim damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize these damages, but an experienced lawyer can help ensure you receive fair compensation.

Property Damage and Future Care Needs

If your golf cart accident resulted in damage to personal property, repair or replacement costs may be included in your claim. Additionally, if long-term care is required due to permanent injuries, those expenses should be factored into your claim.

Insurance Coverage and Liability Determination

Your compensation may depend on the at-fault party’s insurance policy limits. Some insurance companies have strict coverage limits, making it critical to work with an injury lawyer who can determine liability and identify all potential sources of compensation.

How an Attorney Can Help Maximize Your Claim

A skilled golf cart accident lawyer will:

• Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to secure the highest settlement possible.
• Gather evidence to prove liability and document the full extent of your damages.
• Consult with medical experts to project future medical bills and long-term care needs.
• Ensure you do not accept a lowball settlement that fails to cover all your losses.

Why Choose Our Chicago Golf Cart Accident Lawyers?

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are committed to providing strong legal representation for golf cart crash victims across Illinois. With a track record of millions recovered, we fight aggressively to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve for the cost of medical care, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay unless we win your case. We handle negotiations with insurance companies, investigate claims thoroughly, and take cases to trial when necessary. With direct attorney access, we ensure personalized attention and legal guidance throughout your case.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a golf cart accident, contact us 24/7 for a free consultation. Let our experienced team fight for your rights and help you secure the maximum compensation possible.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.