Golf carts are a popular way for residents to traverse Ocala and surrounding towns. Despite the small size and limited power of these vehicles, accidents can result in serious injury.
Review these safety tips before spending the day on the links or using a golf cart to run errands in your community.
Know the relevant laws
Florida considers golf carts low-speed vehicles, or LSVs, defined as vehicles with a top speed between 20 and 25 miles per hour. Golf cart drivers must have a valid Florida driver’s license and carry the state’s minimum liability insurance coverage. You can operate golf carts only on roads designated for LSVs with a posted speed of 30 mph or less.
Use passenger safety precautions
Do not carry more passengers than intended by the golf cart manufacturer. All drivers and riders should remain seated with seat belts on at all times.
Obey the rules of the road
When traveling in public, you must follow the same laws as other motor vehicle operators. Do not drive recklessly or operate a golf cart under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Take care when turning
If you plan to turn, always signal your intention to other drivers on the road. Make sure you check all blind spots before switching lanes or entering an intersection, situations in which the risk of collision increases. Avoid sharp turns and always check behind you before reversing.
If you or a family member experiences a debilitating golf cart accident, you may have a case for legal compensation when another motorist caused the collision. Florida gives you four years to file this type of claim starting from the accident date.
Ms. Olsen has practiced law since 1992. During her law school education and throughout career she knew, if it is not about people, she is not interested. Everything about people interests Ms. Olsen from the simple details of living to the most profound. She began her law career in a skyscraper in downtown Miami representing corporate interests. Within a VERY short time, Pam knew that side of the things in the world was not for her.
