Golf carts may not be the fastest vehicles out there, but that does not mean you are free to drive them recklessly. Golf cart accidents can and do occur, often resulting in serious injuries. That is why Discovery Golf Cars has created this guide to preventing golf cart accidents.

Causes of Accidents

Golf cart accidents can occur for a number of reasons. Sometimes it is due to unsafe driving practices, like going too fast, reversing while going downhill, taking turns too sharp for the cart to handle, recklessly crossing difficult terrain, or the driver just not paying attention. Other incidents occur due to unsafe behavior on the part of the passengers, like letting limbs hang out of the cart, allowing too many people to ride at once, or intoxicated driving.

Regardless of the cause, unsafe behavior can have serious consequences. Golf cart accidents can result in broken or sprained limbs, neck injuries like whiplash, concussions, and even being crushed by the cart.

Golf Carts & Kids

It is an unfortunate fact that one third of all golf cart accidents involve children. While laws regarding how old someone must be to operate a golf cart vary from state to state, any underage golf cart driver should be well supervised and familiar with operating the cart.

Make sure that any child riding as a passenger in your golf cart is well versed in safety procedures. Hands and feet should stay inside the vehicle at all times, and seat belts should be worn if they are provided. Make sure they know not to climb over the seats or jump off the cart while it is still in motion and are aware of the dangers of distracting the driver. If necessary, give them a quick safety lecture before you leave.

Safe Operation Rules

The golf cart operator should be sober and aware of their surroundings at all times. Any potential distractions should be removed, and the cart should only be driven under good weather conditions. Other important rules include exercising care when crossing difficult terrain and only transporting as many passengers as your cart is rated to carry. The driver should lock the break before leaving their seat, and avoid parking on a hill or incline.

We here at Discovery Golf Cars hope these tips help keep you and your passengers safe while operating your golf cart. For more information or to view our selection of models, visit us at our dealerships in Land O’ Lakes and Clearwater, Florida. We also offer financing, servicing, parts, and rentals, so visit us for all your golf cart needs. We are proud to serve guests from communities like St. Petersburg and Lakeland, Florida. We hope to see you soon!