This week, we will talk about the options permitted by the Rules of Golf when we encounter a dangerous situation.
Relief without penalty
The Rules allows for a free relief when the dangerous conditions involve an ANIMAL.
Rule 16.2: A dangerous animal condition exists when a dangerous animal (such as poisonous snakes, stinging bees, alligators, fire ants or bears) near a ball could cause serious physical injury to the player if he or she had to play the ball as it lies.
How to take the relief
The player determines the nearest point of relief (where there is no danger). He drops a ball within one club-length from that point without penalty.
If the ball is playable in a penalty area, he may drop a ball without penalty inside the penalty area. If it is not possible, he must use the other options for a penalty area with a one stroke penalty.
LAST WEEK QUESTIONS
Question 1: My ball lies in a penalty area near an alligator, but the ball is in a playable position. What are my options?
ANSWER: The answer is D: I may drop another ball elsewhere in the penalty area without penalty
Question 2: My ball lies in the palm trees in a playable position. In taking my stance my body will touch a poisonous plant (Florida Poisontree). What are my options to get relief from that dangerous condition?
ANSWER: Rule 16.2 gives a free relief only for a DANGEROUS ANIMAL CONDITION. If a player as problems with toxic plants, he must use the options for an unplayable ball.
CONCLUSION: You won’t get a free relief for a ball lying near small lizards, spiders, spider webs, dogs, common ants, etc.
Also no free relief for poisonous plants
NEXT WEEK: No Play Zones: Free relief or NOT? How the referees prepare for a tournament?