From slippery, cracked walkways to golf cart collisions, faulty rental equipment, rogue golf balls and even lightning strikes – accidents and injuries at golf clubs can range from the expected to the downright bizarre.
While clubs provide wonderful recreational spaces and are being enjoyed by increasing numbers of people throughout the UK, they also come with significant risks. Unpredictable weather and the open nature of courses create an environment where accidents can and do happen. For club directors and managers, ensuring member and visitor safety, conducting ongoing risk assessments and protecting the club from legal and financial repercussions are important responsibilities.
Without adequate risk management and insurance cover, clubs can face significant financial losses, legal battles and reputational damage – and patrons face increased risk of potentially life-changing injury.
The National Golf Clubs Advisory Association (NGCAA)[1], which gives guidance on legal matters, governance, compliance and best practices in club management, has reported frequent personal injury and property damage claims related to mis-hit golf balls, for instance, and poor maintenance of the golf course, such as cracked pathways or puddles of water. So, it makes sense for golf clubs to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their members.
The real cost of golf club injuries
Without proper precautions and cover, people can experience terrible injuries and clubs can face significant financial losses due to legal expenses when defending against claims. Accidents can lead to reputational damage, too, with negative publicity deterring prospective members and visitors.
Despite all the dangers, many clubs still struggle with understanding which insurance coverage will best serve their needs, leaving them vulnerable to unforeseen risks. It’s always a good idea to seek advice from an expert in sports club cover, as proper insurance and proactive risk management are crucial to safeguarding both clubs and their players.
How to minimise risks
To reduce liability and protect members, golf club managers should consider the following practical safety measures:
- install clear warning signs – notices should be placed in high-risk areas to alert players and visitors to potential hazards
- regularly conduct risk assessments – identifying dangerous areas and implementing corrective actions can prevent accidents
- maintain course layout and design safety – strategic placement of fairways, protective netting and buffers can help minimise the risk of stray shots reaching unintended areas
- educate members and staff – provide guidance on safe golfing practices and emergency procedures
- maintain fairways and walkways – consider trip hazards
- keep all rental equipment in good nick to avoid mishaps and injury
- ensure first aid readiness – having trained personnel and accessible medical kits can reduce the severity of injuries
- get comprehensive public liability insurance coverage – a tailored insurance policy can protect against financial losses from personal injury claims and property damage
Choosing the right insurance
Even if every precaution is taken, accidents can and will still happen. This is where comprehensive insurance becomes essential. A well-structured insurance policy safeguards a club from unexpected incidents, covering legal costs, compensation claims and property damage. Without proper coverage, a single claim could threaten the financial stability of the whole club.
Make sure the cover you get offers sufficient protection. Think about the following steps:
- obtain public liability protection in case of injuries to members or visitors
- ensure you have employer liability in place for staff-related incidents
- get property and equipment insurance for damages caused by unforeseen events
- make sure you have business interruption coverage to mitigate any financial losses
With the right back-up, golf clubs can focus on what they do best – providing an enjoyable and safe environment for members – while an insurer handles the complexities of risk management and financial protection.
Working with a trusted insurer like Howden can help clubs stay protected while focusing on providing a wonderful environment for this much-loved game.
