Palm Desert, CA (December 28, 2025) – On Saturday, December 28, 2024, Timothy Lillard, a 78-year-old man from Palm Desert, tragically died from injuries sustained in a golf cart accident in the Monterey Country Club gated community.
Accident Details: The accident occurred around noon when Lillard crossed Avenida Del Sol in his golf cart and collided with a moving car. The impact caused the cart to roll onto its side, leaving Lillard critically injured. Despite efforts to save him, he passed away at Desert Regional Medical Center on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several key questions must be addressed to understand who might be liable for Lillard’s tragic death.
- Driver Responsibility: Was the driver of the vehicle at fault? For example, was the car speeding or otherwise negligent in maintaining a safe distance from the golf cart? The location of the crash on Avenida Del Sol may provide insight into whether traffic conditions, visibility, or road design could have played a role in the accident.
- Golf Cart Operation: Did the golf cart have any mechanical issues that could have contributed to the crash? Was it equipped with all the necessary safety features?
- Monterey Country Club’s Role: Another area for consideration is the potential responsibility of the Monterey Country Club. Does the community have regulations or safety measures to prevent such accidents? Were there any violations or deficiencies in maintaining the area that could have contributed to the crash?
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, a wrongful death lawsuit may be an option for his family. Possible recoverable compensation includes funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and damages for the emotional distress of losing a loved one.
My thoughts are with Timothy Lillard’s family during this incredibly difficult time.
Source: Patch