Risk Management and Accident Prevention in the Golf Arena

Having owned an operated a golf facility, as well asin the most incidents are the following:
possessing a law degree and credentialed as a PGA1. Golf Car Operation
of America Golf Professional, I have had abundantThis area is of great concern to most golf courses
opportunity to examine golf facilities from thedue to the many ways incidents can occur. From
perspective of liability hazards to patrons andnegligent drivers of golf cars, to slopes on the
employees.course, golfers find a way to get into an accident.
Interestingly, many golf courses refuse to undergoMany times, unfamiliarity with the terrain or with the
an examination of their facility, because "that is whatoperation of the golf car is responsible. Has your
insurance is for." This is music to an Attorney's ears,course done its homework in determining potential
and should be a red flag from a manager's standpoint.golf car hazards?
This attitude is viewed as uncaring, and will create in2. Food and Beverage Operation
a juries mind the proposition that the facility couldIn this area, does your wait staff understand the
have done more to make it safe for golfers, butrisks of alcohol consumption? Are they aware of the
chose not to instead.liability risk to the operation? Has the general manager
Golf Concepts has provided site examinations andand food and beverage manager fully assessed these
risk assessment to facilities around the world, andrisks?
this has provided a measure of assurance to a facility3. Golf Course Design
that they have taken a necessary step in theWhat type of training did those who designed your
prevention of accidents at their golf course and golffacility have, and did they have a legal understanding
operation.of risks that can be created by their design? My
The areas of a golf facility that seem to be involvedguess would be no on both counts.