Last Updated on August 3, 2026 by tanya

Main Hazards on a Footgolf Course

 

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced under the oversight of Michael Jefferies, First Personal Injury Director, who brings over 30 years of legal experience.

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

 

Equipment Safety, Venue Responsibilities and What to Do If You’re Injured

 

Footgolf has become a popular leisure activity but there are some main hazards on a footgolf course and if these are not properly managed, could lead to an accident where a player could suffer from an avoidable injury. Whether it’s a family day out or a corporate event, such an outing can be great fun. But if it ends in an accident due to operator negligence or unsafe conditions, it could lead to a personal injury claim.

Our guide below looks at what hazards may exist, equipment safety risks, how a venue should respond following an accident and what you should do if you’ve been injured due to negligence.

 

Common Hazards on a Footgolf Course

Footgolf courses vary widely and while some may have been purpose‑built, while others adapt existing golf fairways or open spaces. Because of this, hazards can differ from venue to venue. However, several risks may appear consistently across the UK:

 

1. Uneven Ground and Hidden Holes

Uneven terrain is probably one of the most common hazards where accidents occur in a public area. Unfortunately, such a hazard can cause sprains, fractures, ligament injuries and falls. If the venue fails to inspect and maintain the course regularly, these issues may amount to negligence.

Footgolf relies on natural or lightly modified surfaces which means a poorly maintained ground may possible create:

 

• Hidden dips
• Deep divots
• Exposed roots
• Loose turf
• Unexpected holes

 

2. Slippery Surfaces After Rain

Footgolf is often played in damp conditions which has the potential to create:

 

• Mud patches
• Waterlogged areas
• Slippery slopes
• Wet grass on steep banks

Venues should place warning signs, redirect players or temporarily close unsafe areas. But if this doesn’t happen and you’re injured, you may be entitled to claim compensation for your injury.

 

3. Poorly Marked Boundaries and Blind Spots

Some courses have blind corners, sharp drops or areas where players cannot see others approaching. Poor signage or unclear boundaries can lead to collisions or impact injuries from footballs kicked without visibility.

Venues must ensure safe course design and clear markings and failure to do so may breach their duty of care.

 

4. Hazards in Surrounding Areas

Accidents can also happen away from the main playing area and these areas must also be maintained to the same safety standard as the course itself. This includes areas such as:

 

• Car parks
• Pathways
• Steps leading to the course
• Clubhouse entrances
• Seating areas

 

Footgolf Equipment Safety Risks

Although footgolf uses minimal equipment, poor maintenance or unsafe items can still cause injuries.

1. Over‑Inflated or Damaged Footballs

Footgolf venues often provide footballs and unfortunately damaged balls can be unpredictable while over‑inflated balls may cause:

• Finger injuries
• Wrist sprains
• Impact injuries when kicked or caught

 

2. Unsafe Course Markers and Flags

Markers, cones, flags and hole rings must be safe for public use. If equipment is not properly maintained, the operator may be liable for any resulting injuries. Hazards can include:

 

• Sharp edges
• Broken plastic
• Loose spikes
• Unstable markers that fall or collapse

 

3. Inappropriate Footwear Guidance

While players bring their own footwear, venues should provide clear guidance on safe shoes as slippery trainers or unsuitable boots increase the risk of falls. If a venue fails to warn players about footwear requirements on hazardous terrain, this may contribute to negligence.

 

How a Footgolf Venue Should Respond After an Accident

Public places have to adhere to health and safety regulation under the Occupiers Liability Act 1957 and a responsible footgolf venue should follow a clear accident‑response procedure. This protects players and ensures that any hazards are addressed quickly.

Immediate Assistance

If a person reports an injury, failure to assist appropriately may indicate poor safety management. Therefore, staff should:

 

• Check the injured person’s condition
• Provide first aid if trained
• Call emergency services if needed

 

Recording the Accident

Venues should complete an accident report which is crucial for safety improvements and a potential injury claim. It should include:

 

• Date and time
• Location
• Description of the hazard
• Witness details
• Photos or CCTV
• Staff actions taken

 

Securing the Area

If a hazard caused the accident, staff should take the following steps straight away:

• Close the affected area
• Place warning signs
• Remove dangerous equipment
• Inspect the hazard immediately

Leaving the hazard in place risks further injuries.

 

Investigating the Cause

Venues should carry out a formal investigation as a lack of such an investigation may indicate a systemic safety failure. It should to determine:

• Whether inspections were missed
• Whether maintenance was overdue
• Whether staff followed safety procedures
• Whether equipment was faulty

A lack of investigation may indicate systemic safety failures.

 

What You Should Do If You or a Loved One Has Been Injured on a Footgolf Course

If you suspect negligence or unsafe conditions caused the injury, taking the right steps early can help to strengthen your Claim:

 

1. Seek Medical Attention

Always get medical treatment, even for minor injuries. Medical records form the basis of a claim.

2. Report the Accident to the Venue

Ask for the accident to be logged in their official report system. Request a copy if possible.

3. Gather Evidence

Useful evidence includes:

 

• Photos of the hazard
• Photos of injuries
• Witness statements
• CCTV footage (if available)
• Screenshots of booking confirmations
• Receipts for expenses

 4. Keep Records of Financial Losses

These may include:

 

• Travel costs
• Medical expenses
• Lost earnings
• Care costs
• Rehabilitation fees

5. Contact a Personal Injury Solicitor

We work with highly experienced personal injury lawyers who can:

 

• Assess whether negligence occurred with a free consultation
• Offer a No Win, No Fee option, meaning you don’t pay anything upfront
• Identify the correct defendant
• Gather evidence
• Arrange medical assessments
• Value your claim accurately
• Negotiate compensation
• Handle insurer communication

 

When Is a Footgolf Injury Likely to Be Negligence?

You may be able to prove negligence if:

 

• The hazard was known but not fixed
• The venue failed to inspect the course
• Equipment was unsafe
• Staff ignored warnings
• Signage was missing
• The course design created unavoidable risks

 

Your Next Steps

Footgolf is a fun and accessible sport, but hazards may cause an injury if a venue fails to maintain safe conditions when venues fail to maintain safe conditions

If you or a loved one has been injured and you suspect negligence, acting quickly and seeking legal advice can make a significant difference to your claim for compensation.

Call us at 0333 3582345 or contact us online for an initial, no-obligation consultation.