Who's Responsible for Spectator Injuries?

With baseball season in full swing, an interesting insurance question that comes up is who is responsible for damages from a baseball hitting a spectator or a vehicle outside the park?

Or, what about damages from errant golf/hockey shots, auto racing accidents, and other sporting events?

Generally speaking, the past 5 or so decades of case law has ruled that:

the spectator assumes the risk when attending a sporting event and is responsible for the cost of any damages incurred.

There are certainly exceptions to this based on specific circumstances, but the thinking is it's public knowledge that there is a possibility of stray items entering spectator areas, and those attending accept that risk as commonly documented in the terms of the ticket purchase.

Generally, if you get hit by a baseball and experience injury, you are responsible for any costs for medical assistance.  If your vehicle is damaged, it may be covered by your auto insurance, depending on your coverage and deductible.

It's easy to forget the exact coverage amounts you have when you don't file claims often, so talk with your insurance agent periodically to remind yourself what your coverage is.

Even better is to get the help of an independent agent to get the best coverage and cost for your current situation.   As an independent agent with decades of property and casualty experience, I'll be  glad  review your policies.  Call me today - 706-726-1446 - for timely assistance.