Glass flies into plaintiff's eye. Liability and causation admitted, but extent of injury disputed.
The Case
- Case Name: Graham v. American Golf Corporation, et al.
- Court and Case Number: Los Angeles Superior Court / 24LBCV02390
- Date of Verdict or Judgment: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
- Date Action was Filed: Thursday, October 31, 2024
- Type of Case: Negligence, Premises Liability
- Judge or Arbitrator(s): Hon. Nicole Heeseman
- Plaintiffs:
Thomas Graham, 53
- Defendants:
American Golf Corporation
- Type of Result: Jury Verdict
The Result
- Gross Verdict or Award: $1,400,000
- Non-Economic Damages:
$1,400,000
The Attorneys
- Attorney for the Plaintiff:
Panish Shea Ravipudi LLP by Jonathan Davidi and Brigitta Cymerint, Los Angeles.
- Attorney for the Defendant:
Buchholz, Harris, Levine & Brennan by Richard G. Harris and Kevin Tanaka, Los Angeles.
The Experts
- Plaintiff’s Medical Expert(s):
Vivek Patel, M.D., ophthalmology.
- Defendant's Medical Expert(s):
Kimberly Gokoffski, M.D., ophthalmology.
Mark Tramo, M.D., neurology.
Facts and Background
- Facts and Background:
Plaintiff was inside the café at Heartwell Golf Course in Long Beach when a golf ball propelled by a lawn mower operated and maintained by defendant American Golf Corporation flew through the café window, shattering the glass. Tiny shards of glass entered into plaintiff’s body and left eye.
Liability and causation were admitted and damages were disputed.
- Plaintiff's Contentions:
As a result of the subject incident, plaintiff sustained a corneal abrasion with corneal nerve irritation, resulting in chronic eye pain, foreign body sensation, and trigeminal nerve damage, causing ongoing migraines and headaches. Plaintiff continues to experience persistent symptoms.
- Defendant's Contentions:
Defendant disputed that the headaches and migraines were related to the injury at the golf course, and contended that plaintiff's initial eye injury resolved within three weeks, and any residual complaints were due to preexisting dry eye syndrome which could be treated with eye drops.
Injuries and Other Damages
- Physical Injuries claimed by Plaintiff:
Corneal abrasion with corneal nerve irritation, resulting in chronic eye pain, foreign body sensation, and trigeminal nerve damage, causing ongoing migraines and headaches.
Demands and Offers
- Defendant Final Offer before Trial: $75,000
Additional Notes
Insurer: Starr Indemnity and Liability Company