Injuries and Poorly Maintained Pickleball Courts

Attracting players of all ages, pickleball has swiftly become a beloved sport in Delray Beach and the surrounding communities. As the sport’s popularity grows, so does the responsibility of upkeeping courts as poorly maintained pickleball courts can lead to injuries.

After getting hurt playing pickleball, it is normal to have questions about who is responsible for pickleball courts and whether they can be held accountable for injury-related expenses. Schedule a meeting with a Delray Beach personal injury attorney to access answers to all of your concerns and strategize a financial path forward while you physically heal.

Where People Play Pickleball

Pickleball is a paddle sport, it is often described as an activity that combines elements of other paddle games, such as tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. While pickleball has been around for decades, in recent years there has been an explosive increase in popularity across the United States, and Delray Beach is no exception. According to one report, pickleball participation has surged over 20% from 2019 to 2020, and it continues to attract new enthusiasts every day.

In Delray Beach, residents flock to various locations to enjoy pickleball. The sport’s appeal lies in its accessibility, low-impact nature, and social aspects. A few places the sport is played:

• Pompey Park. A popular spot offering dedicated pickleball courts.
• Delray Beach Community Center. Known for its well-maintained facilities and regular pickleball events.
• Veterans Park. Another favored destination with dedicated pickleball courts and a vibrant community of players.

The responsibility for maintaining courts typically falls on the property owner or the organization that manages the facility. This could be a local government entity, a private club, or a homeowner’s association. These parties are responsible for ensuring that the courts are safe for use, including regular inspections, timely repairs, and proper upkeep.

While pickleball is generally a safe and enjoyable sport, poorly maintained courts can pose serious hazards. For example, cracked or uneven surfaces can lead to trips, falls, and sprained ankles, significantly increasing the risk of injury. Also, nets that are not set to the correct height can lead to collisions or falls, and poor lighting can make it difficult for players to see clearly, leading to accidents, especially during evening games.

Liability for Pickleball Injuries

If a player is injured due to faulty court maintenance, the responsible party can potentially be held liable, particularly if it can be proven that they were negligent in maintaining the court. Negligence might include failing to repair known hazards, not conducting regular inspections, or ignoring maintenance requests. Then, injured players can seek compensation through legal channels. A Delray Beach personal injury attorney can help navigate this process.

Did you get hurt playing pickleball? If you believe your injury is due to a poorly maintained court, you may be able to file a claim to settle injury-related expenses. It is the responsibility of the managing entities to ensure player safety, have a conversation with the talented attorneys at Earnhart Law, professionals with over 30 years of legal experience, to explore next steps. Call 561-265-2220 or contact us online today.