Golf Course Insurance

Golf course owners have plenty of insurance options, and you can pick and choose which ones apply to your business. Even though the policy coverage varies, there are five common options available on most golf courses.

Liability Insurance 

All businesses should carry liability insurance and it is a legal requirement in some states. Balsiger Insurance can help you determine if it applies in your state.

If you have employees, you do need to carry worker’s compensation.

Liability insurance protects your business. Even though golf courses aren’t considered especially hazardous, accidents still happen. Clubs can fly out of golfers’ hands and there is always the possibility of getting hit by a ball.

Golf Cart Insurance

Golf cart insurance is easy to overlook after all the driving is done on the course. You aren’t worried about traffic accidents. Golf cart insurance also isn’t legally required.

Foregoing the insurance may seem like you are saving money, but it’s rarely the case. Accidents can happen in golf carts and damage can also occur. The carts are not cheap to repair or replace.

Some of the types of golf cart insurance policies to consider include,

• Property damage: A type of liability insurance, property damage protects you if a golf cart causes damage. It typically covers both your property and the other party.
• Bodily injury: Golf carts can tip over and other types of accidents can occur resulting in bodily injury. Medical bills are expensive, but bodily injury insurance will take care of the costs.
• Collision coverage: Golf carts do not travel at high rates of speed, so most collisions are minor. Unfortunately, damage and injuries can still occur. This type of insurance covers the costs associated with this type of accident.
• Comprehensive coverage: Not every golf course owner needs comprehensive coverage. It might be one you can safely skip, depending on the course’s location. Comprehensive coverage takes care of any weather-related damage to the property. It also covers theft. If your golf course is in a high-crime area, you may want to add the coverage.

Pollution Insurance

Pollution insurance doesn’t refer to air quality. Instead, it applies to any pesticides and herbicides you use to keep the turf looking green and healthy.

Your golf course liability coverage doesn’t cover any property damage or bodily injuries caused by the potentially toxic chemicals. Even though states have strict laws regulating the use of these products, accidents and exposure are still possible.

Tournament Insurance

Most golf courses host tournaments for their players. It’s a great way to advertise and stay ahead of the competition.

Since tournaments use the prize money to attract players, it’s a good idea to carry insurance. Tournament insurance only covers the prize money. It ensures you are not paying the winner out of your pocket.

There are limits to the amount of prize money these insurance policies cover. It’s a good idea to check the policy before advertising the potential prizes.

Alcohol Liability Insurance

It’s common for golf courses to allow patrons to consume alcohol on the property. Some courses offer it to players, while others allow golfers to bring their favorite adult beverages.

Adding liquor to a golf game can add to the fun and relaxation, but it also contributes to accidents.

Most liability policies do not cover alcohol-induced accidents or damage. Without alcohol liability insurance, you are financially responsible for all related costs. The coverage also protects you in the event of a civil lawsuit.

It may also be a legal requirement in your state or county. Some areas require golf courses to carry the insurance if alcohol is allowed on the premises.

Do Players Need Golf Insurance? 

Even though most golf courses carry insurance, it doesn’t always cover everything. You are covered if you are injured on the course. You’re also not liable if a wild golf bar sails through a clubhouse window.

As an individual you may want to check with your home insurance to see what is included or what needs to be added.

It is usually super reasonable to add specific coverage for your golf clubs and accessories.

As far as golf carts it is very important that you ask how your golf cart is covered for both liability and damage to the cart.  Many golf cart owners live in communities where their golf cart is almost used like an additional vehicle.  If you fall into this category you may need to purchase golf cart liability coverage.