So you’re out golfing, having the time of your life on a Sunday afternoon, and then BAM! You lob a golf ball right into someone’s house! Oops. But, now what?

Unfortunately, there isn’t one single answer to wrap this all up in a pretty bow. Your liability for property damage in this case varies from state to state, goes on a case by case basis, and some courts even decide that the golfer is always responsible for the damage they cause to personal property. 

So, you break a window, you pay for it. However, there is the obvious risk that homeowner(s)’s took by choosing to live on/near a golf course, meaning that their homeowner’s insurance could kick in to cover the damage; and maybe, just maybe, it may be a combination of the two! 

Then there’s the possibility that the course itself could take on the responsibility! Some homeowners have taken a suit against courses and won, some have lost. In the case that the homeowners win, it’s most likely that the course was constructed after the homes were already built, which then means that the course took on the obvious risk of being too close to these already established homes. Another option would be that the course has poorly constructed holes and tee boxes in such a way that the homes are put into danger that could have been avoided. 

Ultimately, if you’re the golfer that hits someone’s home, you should own up to the mistake by letting the homeowner know what has happened, and see what they want to do to fix the situation. Don’t just hop back in the golf cart and whistle as you speed at 9mph away from the scene of the crime. 

And best thing to do, “Hit ‘Em Straight” and don’t fool around on the course!

Article written by contract writer and digital media coordinator: Candace Cox. You can reach her at socials@howardwebbins.com or candacecox96@gmail.com.