Top Golf Cart Safety Tips
People will soon be hitting the links and getting out their golf clubs as the warmer weather approaches. You may be able to legally drive your golf cart on city streets depending on where you live.
Although most people think that golf carts are relatively safe, it is important to remember that they can still be vehicles and that accidents do occur. Carts & Parts LLC offers golf carts, golf cart accessories, and golf cart parts. While you may have fun with a golf cart, you could also injure or seriously injure someone else if your behavior is not responsible. To keep you and your fellow passenger’s safe; we have compiled a list of top safety tips for golf carts.
1. Take responsibility
Everyone in your golf cart must keep their arms and legs within the vehicle at all costs. You’ve likely heard it before, “Please keep your legs and arms inside the train (car, vehicle, etc.)” You should keep your arms and legs inside the train (car, vehicle, etc.) until it stops completely. All of your limbs should be in the cart if it is moving.
2. Limit Passengers
Golf carts can only carry a limited number of people. You should not have more than the number of seats in your cart. If you have a cart that is designed for two people, this means you can only drive one person.
3. Respect Traffic Laws
Driving your golf cart in a city street is considered operating a vehicle. You are subject to the same traffic laws that apply to a passenger car. Respect the law at all costs. This includes no reckless driving, tailgating, and certainly no speeding.
4. Do not get distracted
Motor vehicle accidents are often happened by distracted driving. You may be distracted by your phone, texting, or checking your email while driving your golf cart. However, you might think that you can’t possibly injure anyone since you are traveling at such low speeds. You are still operating a powerful machine.
5. Make sure to use platforms correctly
You should not have extra passengers if your golf cart has platforms at the front, back, or sides. These platforms can be used to transport items such as shopping bags or golf bags. These platforms are not for use by those who are sitting or standing.
6. Avoid driving and drinking
People often drink a lot while out on the course or just relaxing in town. You should not stop for a drink while you are playing golf or walking around town. You could be charged with drunk driving and be subject to a lifetime of pain and suffering.
7. Turns are easy!
Left-hand turns can be more dangerous than people think. If you don’t inspect your blind spots, you could endanger someone. Hand signals are important, regardless of which direction you’re turning. This is especially true if your vehicle doesn’t have turning lights. Before you turn, look both over your shoulders and yield to traffic in front of you.
8. Reduce speed
Pay attention to road conditions. While driving at a high speed is safe for a straight stretch of road, it can prove dangerous on gravel roads or roads with many curves and sharp bends. You should drive at the right speed for the road and the weather.
9. Starts and stops
Do not suddenly stop, accelerate or start moving. Your passengers are at risk if you drive in a hurry. It is dangerous to drive on a street in your neighborhood. You are driving a vehicle. You should operate your golf cart the same way you operated your car.
10. Keep your keys safe
Your keys should always be with you when you are leaving your golf cart. Before you leave the cart, make sure to set the parking brake. It is not a good idea for children or unlicensed drivers to have access to the keys. Your cart should not roll backward, hitting pedestrians or other objects.
11. Be on the lookout for inclement weather
Before you set out on your journey in your cart, be aware of the weather. You should take care not to drive your golf cart in thunderstorms as they are susceptible to lightning strikes. Do your best to pull over if you encounter dangerous weather you didn’t expect.
12. Don’t be afraid to yield to pedestrians
Always yield to pedestrians when you’re operating your golf cart. This means that you must yield to pedestrians, even if they are walking slowly on the trail or along a cart path. Pedestrians are entitled to the right of way in most, if not all situations. You could be civilly or criminally charged if you hit a pedestrian while driving your golf cart.
Golf carts can be a great way of getting around the course. They are also a great option for those who live in areas that are golf cart-friendly. These safety tips are important to remember if you own a golf cart.
You may be eligible for compensation if you are involved in a golf cart accident that occurred in Charlotte or anywhere. To schedule a free case evaluation, and to learn more about your legal rights, contact our office. We are here to help you. Our team of experts will tirelessly work to get you the legal compensation you deserve.
