NONTHABURI, Thailand – A 32-year-old golf caddie who permanently lost sight in her right eye after being struck by a golfer’s wayward shot has sought legal assistance, claiming the player has not provided adequate compensation for her injuries and ongoing medical expenses. The woman, identified as Joy, visited lawyer Ratchaphon at his office in Nonthaburi on November 7 to seek advice ahead of a mediation meeting scheduled for November 10 at Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station.
The incident occurred on October 13 at around 5.30pm at a golf course in the Rangsit area. Joy said she was working as a caddie for a female group when one of the golfers struck a ball that flew into her right eye without warning. The impact fractured her eye socket and nose and caused severe bleeding. She recalled that fellow caddies rushed to help, using an ice pack to control the bleeding. Doctors later informed her that the injury was so severe that she had permanently lost sight in the affected eye.
Joy said the golfer initially came over to look at the scene but did not speak with her. She also claimed the player never visited or contacted her during her hospital stay. The initial surgery and treatment cost 65,000 baht. According to Joy, the golfer asked her boyfriend to share the expense equally. Her boyfriend managed to contribute 15,000 baht, leaving the golfer to pay the remaining 50,000 baht.
Joy said she has since had to attend follow-up medical appointments, costing more than 1,000 baht each time, which she pays herself. Unable to return to work, she currently has no income. She also alleged that the golfer, who drives a luxury car with red temporary registration plates, claimed to have no money available for compensation and had to borrow funds. The only additional payment she said her boyfriend received was 500 baht, described as assistance with travel expenses and the time spent accompanying her.
Concerned that she and her boyfriend might be at a disadvantage during the upcoming mediation because they lack legal knowledge, Joy decided to seek professional advice. Lawyer Ratchaphon said the case could involve negligence causing injury, an offence carrying both imprisonment and a fine. He said potential compensation could include medical expenses, loss of an organ, lost income and other damages arising from the incident. He pledged to assist Joy with the legal proceedings and help ensure she receives fair treatment.
