$15M Jury Verdict in Topgolf Injury Case Over Child's Skull Fracture
Smith Foster King (SFK) secured a landmark $15.7 million federal jury verdict on behalf of a child who suffered a traumatic brain injury after being struck by a golf club at Topgolf’s Hillsboro, Oregon, location.
The injury occurred in November 2021, when the nine-year-old child attended a birthday party at Topgolf. While in the hitting bay area, the child was struck in the head by a golf club swung by another young guest. The impact caused an open depressed skull fracture, cerebral hemorrhage, and traumatic brain injury. The child required emergency neurosurgery and faced significant medical treatment and long-term consequences from the injury.
SFK brought the case against Topgolf, alleging that the company failed to provide a reasonably safe environment for guests, particularly children. The case examined the design and operation of Topgolf’s hitting bays, including the proximity of golfers to other guests, the separation between the swinging and seating areas, the warnings provided to customers, and the safety measures available to reduce the risk of guests being struck by golf clubs.
At trial in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon, SFK presented evidence concerning the foreseeable danger created when guests, including children, were allowed to move within close proximity to active golf swings without adequate physical barriers or other protections.
On September 4, 2025, the federal jury unanimously found Topgolf liable and awarded $15,774,783.62 in damages. The verdict included $3,274,783.62 in economic damages and $12.5 million in noneconomic damages. The jury assigned 97 percent of the fault to Topgolf.
The verdict represented a significant result in a premises-liability case involving the safety responsibilities of an entertainment business serving families and children. Before the jury considered punitive damages, the parties reached a settlement that provided for payment of the full jury verdict plus an additional confidential amount.
This case underscores an important principle of premises liability: businesses that invite families onto their property have a responsibility to identify foreseeable hazards and take reasonable steps to protect their guests from serious injury.
About Smith Foster King
Smith Foster King is a plaintiff’s law firm representing individuals and businesses in complex civil litigation in state and federal courts. The firm’s collaborative approach draws on decades of courtroom, litigation, and business experience to help clients navigate their most challenging legal disputes.
Smith Foster King handles a broad range of claims, including employment-related matters such as discrimination, retaliation, and workplace disputes, as well as cases involving sexual assault, elder abuse, and business conflicts. Sam, Anne, and Jaimee leverage their extensive courtroom and boardroom experience to deliver effective, personalized representation and help clients navigate complex legal challenges. For more information, visit www.smithfosterking.com or call 503.567.7100.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and depends on its particular facts and circumstances.
