There are more reported golf cart incidents in the U.S. these days. In South Carolina, a drunk driver killed a bride on her wedding day. The bride was on a golf cart following her reception. In Mississippi, a woman in Madison County was airlifted to the hospital after being hit by a golf cart driven by an unlicensed, underage kid.
In the City of Madison, where our office is located, there is an ordinance that designates approved neighborhoods for golf cart use and establishes certain restrictions. These restrictions, or conditions, include that you must have a driver’s license to operate a golf cart, and that the golf cart must be insured.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while driving a golf cart:
- Obey and follow all traffic rules
Even if your golf cart’s not “street legal” or doesn’t have a license plate, you must follow all traffic rules, such as stopping at stop signs and stop lights. You may receive a traffic violation for not following the rules.
- Always be aware of your surroundings
Most golf carts are operated in neighborhoods or in areas with high foot traffic. It is important to keep a proper lookout so that you don’t injure yourself or others.
- Use seatbelts, if available
If your golf cart doesn’t have seatbelts, then add them.
- Do not text while driving the golf cart
Distracted driving applies to golf carts too. It only takes a second of your eyes being off the road for a joy ride to turn into a tragedy.
- Do not drive the golf cart while intoxicated
A person driving a golf cart under the influence of drugs or alcohol can still face charges. Golf carts aren’t a “safe alternative” to driving your car if you are drunk.
- Don’t let inexperienced drivers drive golf carts
Depending on your state, there may be areas that don’t require a driver’s license to operate a golf cart, especially on private property. That doesn’t mean it’s okay to allow inexperienced drivers to drive your golf cart. You both could be liable if something happens.
- Children should be seated in a seat and not on your lap
All occupants of a golf cart should have a seat and remain in that seat at all times while the golf cart is in operation.
If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligent use of a golf cart, please contact our office today.