Injured in a Golf Cart Accident in California? Know Your Rights

Despite receiving less media coverage than other types of accidents, golf cart incidents are more common than many people realize. In recent years, the number of reported accidents has risen significantly, particularly in areas where golf carts are used frequently, such as golf courses, residential neighborhoods, college campuses, and tourist destinations throughout California.

One recent case that received national attention involved former NFL player John Elway and his former agent, Jeff Sperbeck. Tragically, Sperbeck lost his life after falling from a golf cart in La Quinta, California. Beyond the heartbreaking loss, this case raises a critical question: Who can be held legally responsible when a golf cart accident occurs?

If you or someone you love has been injured in a golf cart incident, it’s important to understand your legal rights. At Adamson Ahdoot, our experienced personal injury attorneys specialize in transportation-related cases and will evaluate your situation free of charge. We will guide you through your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at (800) 310-1606 or submit your case through our online form to schedule a free and confidential consultation.

Are Golf Cart Accidents Common?

Over the past few years, golf carts have become increasingly popular due to their practicality. Beyond golf courses, they are now a common mode of transportation on college campuses, at resorts and airports, and are frequently used by park maintenance crews, private security personnel, and local law enforcement.

As their popularity has grown in both public and private settings, so too has the number of golf cart-related accidents, many of which result in serious injuries. In fact, multiple studies conducted over the past three decades have confirmed a steady upward trend in injury rates.

A 2008 study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine revealed that golf cart-related injuries increased by 132.3% over a 17-year period.

Between 2007 and 2017, Nationwide Children’s Hospital estimated 156,040 golf cart-related injuries, averaging over 15,000 emergency room visits per year. The most common cause was falling from the vehicle, accounting for 38.3% of all cases.

More recently, data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) reported at least 500 documented injuries in 2023. However, experts estimate the actual number to be significantly higher, at around 26,000 injuries per year.

Children make up a particularly vulnerable group. Nearly one-third (31.2%) of all golf cart injuries involved children under the age of 16. According to a study published in BMJ Journals, more than 60% of those injured children suffered some form of traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Overall, soft tissue injuries were the most frequently reported (47.7% of cases). Additionally, 7.8% of patients required hospitalization, highlighting the potentially serious consequences of these incidents.

Recent Golf Cart Accidents in California

To support the data presented above, it’s important to examine real-world cases of injuries caused by golf cart accidents. Although golf carts are considered convenient and practical, they can lead to high-risk situations resulting in serious injury or death.

Unfortunately, the driver’s negligence or reckless behavior causes many of these accidents. In addition to the well-known case of Jeff Sperbeck, the crash involving Aric Hutchinson and Samantha Miller shocked the nation.

Post-Wedding Tragedy of Aric Hutchinson and Samantha Miller

Although this case occurred in South Carolina, it made headlines nationwide. Just hours after their wedding, newlyweds Aric Hutchinson and Samantha Miller were riding in a golf cart back to their hotel when a drunk driver hit them at high speed. While Samantha died instantly, Aric sustained life-threatening injuries, including a traumatic brain injury and multiple fractures.

Jeff Sperbeck Dies After Golf Cart Incident in La Quinta

One of the most high-profile golf cart accident cases in recent years, both in California and nationwide, involved Jeff Sperbeck, the former agent of NFL legend John Elway. In April 2025, Sperbeck lost his balance while riding a golf cart at the exclusive Madison Club in La Quinta, fell, and struck his head on the pavement. Despite receiving medical treatment for several days, he ultimately died from his injuries. Authorities later determined that Elway would not face criminal charges related to the incident.

More Recent Golf Cart Accident Cases in California

Many communities in California allow golf carts to provide easier access within residential areas. However, golf cart accidents are more common than many people expect. Below are some notable cases:

• Oakhurst, CA (June 2025): A 60-year-old woman was seriously injured after being ejected through the windshield of a golf cart. The accident took place in a residential area of Sierra Foothills, Madera County. Emergency responders rushed her to a nearby hospital.

• Palm Desert, CA (April 2025): Two individuals sustained injuries when the golf cart they were riding unexpectedly overturned. Authorities have raised concerns about a possible mechanical failure.

• Palm Desert, CA (January 2025): A 78-year-old man died after being struck by a vehicle while crossing a road inside the Monterey Country Club on his golf cart. The collision caused the golf cart to overturn, resulting in fatal injuries.

• Woodcrest, CA (August 2024): A golf cart overturned in a residential area of Woodcrest, Mariposa County, leaving one person dead and another injured. Authorities suspect that alcohol or drug use may have contributed to the accident.

• La Quinta, CA (August 2023): A 65-year-old man lost his life following an accident at an intersection. Officials indicated that alcohol and drugs might have been factors in this tragic event.

• Lake Tahoe, CA (July 2022): A golf cart driving near the lake was rear-ended by a sedan. The driver of the golf cart was ejected and sustained fatal injuries. The sedan driver claimed not to have seen the golf cart.

Who Is Liable in a Golf Cart Accident?

Although golf carts are often considered safe, they continue to cause numerous injuries, especially among children. As their presence on roads and in communities grows, so do concerns about safety and the lack of consistent regulation. While strengthening state and local laws is crucial, manufacturers also bear responsibility for redesigning these vehicles to reduce risks and prevent serious accidents.

The absence of comprehensive regulations raises key questions following an injury: Who is liable? Can an injured party file a lawsuit? How is legal responsibility determined?

Each case is unique, and fault may lie with multiple parties. Depending on the circumstances, several potential defendants could be held accountable in most golf cart accident cases.

Possible Liable Parties:

• The Golf Cart Manufacturer: If the accident resulted from a design defect or mechanical failure, the manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws.
• Other Vehicles Involved: If negligence, distracted driving, or intoxication caused a collision between a golf cart and another vehicle, the other driver may be responsible—like in Samantha Miller’s tragic case.
• The Golf Cart Driver: The driver may be at fault if they acted recklessly. This could include driving under the influence, speeding, or transporting passengers unsafely.
• Public Entity or Property Owner: If poor road conditions, potholes, inadequate signage, or other hazardous factors contributed to the accident, the city, municipality, or private property owner may be liable under premises liability laws.
• Rental Company: If the golf cart was rented and the rental company failed to properly maintain the vehicle, they could be held responsible.
• Employer: If the golf cart was operated as part of an employee’s job duties (e.g., security or maintenance), the employer may be liable for resulting damages.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

We understand that a golf cart accident can profoundly impact your health and well-being. If you or a loved one suffered injuries, Adamson Ahdoot is ready to provide the compassionate support you deserve.

Our team of seasoned personal injury attorneys brings over 100 years of combined experience fighting for the rights of Californians. We strive to secure the fair compensation you need to move forward with confidence.

We will stand by your side and fight tirelessly to achieve justice for you and your family. Call us today at (800) 310-1606 to schedule a consultation, or submit your case through our online form for a free review.