Golf Cart Accident Prevention: Driving Rules & Safety Tips

Do y’all remember the tragic Folly Beach golf cart accident in April 2023? In short, a 25-year old driver, traveling at 65 mph in a 25 mph zone while under the influence, crashed into a golf cart carrying a newlywed couple, resulting in the bride’s death and the groom’s severe injury.

Unfortunately, we can’t change the outcomes of this heartbreaking golf cart crash. However, it serves as a critical opportunity discuss the importance of safe usage and maintenance of golf carts to prevent future accidents.

First, Let’s Talk About SC Golf Cart Laws

While typically used on much slower roads or even off public roads, there are specific rules about owning an operating a golf cart in South Carolina. 

To start, golf cart drivers must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license. Additionally, the golf cart must be properly registered with the SCDMV and insured to obtain a South Carolina golf cart permit.

Secondly, golf carts in South Carolina can only be operated on secondary roads with posted speed limits not exceeding 35 mph, within a four-mile radius of the address listed on the DMV permit, and during daylight hours. It is crucial to note that traffic laws apply to golf carts, including restrictions on driving under the influence (DUI), just as they do for regular vehicles.

It’s noteworthy that these golf cart regulations apply both for driving on public roads and operations in beachside areas.

Golf Cart Insurance in South Carolina

We mentioned it briefly on the previous section, but it needs to be reiterated — having a golf cart insurance is required by law in South Carolina. In other words, auto insurance policies usually do not cover golf carts so these require a separate coverage.

A golf cart insurance usually includes several coverages, including collision and comprehensive coverages for accident and non-accident related physical damage to the cart, coverage against theft or vandalism, and, it goes without saying, a liability coverage for bodily injury or property damage caused by the cart.

Who’s Liable after a Golf Cart Accident?

Determining liability in a golf cart accident predominantly depends on the location of the incident, such as a golf course, country club, gated residential community, or beachside area. Generally, the person or entity whose negligence caused the accident is responsible for compensating the other party.

If you’re injured or your golf cart is damaged in a golf cart crash, and you can prove that your injuries resulted from the negligence of the other party, their insurance would cover for your damages. However, if you are at fault, you will need to contact your own golf cart insurance provider.

Golf Cart Rental Safety Considerations

Golf cart rentals are a convenient and fun way to explore local areas, resort properties, and enhance guest experience during special events. However, when it comes to golf cart accidents, renting a golf cart comes with several safety responsibilities. 

Golf cart rental agencies are responsible for providing insured and well-maintained golf carts. They should also offer clear safety instructions, explain local rules and regulations, and ensure that renters understand how to operate the golf cart safely before use.

Renters, on their part, must adhere to traffic laws and practice safe driving as instructed. When renting a golf cart, it is advisable to confirm that the golf cart is in good working condition and has received regular maintenance. Please don’t leave the agency area before you’re confident about how to properly and safely operate the golf cart to avoid unfortunate golf cart accidents. 

How to Prevent Golf Cart Accidents and Minimize Their Outcomes?

As evidenced by the Folly Beach golf cart accident, even though golf carts operate at lower speeds than other vehicles, accidents can still be fatal. As the number of golf cart drivers on the streets increases, so does the potential for accidents.

Two main factors contribute to the high risk associated with driving a golf cart and the severity of golf cart accidents. First, golf carts are often perceived as recreational vehicles, leading drivers to take traffic rules less seriously. Additionally, golf carts typically lack standard safety features. For instance, golf carts are by default open-air, without doors or windows, they may not have turn signals or side-view mirrors, and more often than not, they are not equipped with seatbelts.

In light of the above reasons, golf cart owners can take three main actions to prevent golf cart accidents and mitigate their outcomes:

1. Drive Responsibly — Abide by all traffic laws, avoid overloading the golf cart, prevent passengers from standing while the cart is in motion, watch for pedestrians and other obstacles, and use turn signals appropriately.
2. Install Safety Equipment — Equip golf carts with essential safety features such as seatbelts, rearview and side-view mirrors, horns, and front and rear turn signals. While these measures may not prevent accidents entirely, they can help minimize the risk of traumatic injuries.
3. Care for Your Golf Cart — This involves proper maintenance, such as regularly checking tire pressure, ensuring brakes are functional, and maintaining the electrical system.

Safety First

While golf carts are often associated with leisurely activities, the consequences of golf cart accidents can still be tragic. Understanding the relevant laws, obtaining proper insurance coverage, and implementing proactive safety measures, will allow to prevent such accidens for the sake of all road users. 

At Garrett’s Golf Cars, we are committed to promoting golf cart safety and responsible ownership. Our team is dedicated to providing top-quality golf carts, comprehensive maintenance services, and valuable insights to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. If you have any questions or need assistance with golf cart-related matters, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.