Golf Cart Safety - Even the Police Have Concerns

Golf carts are an increasingly popular way to get from one place to another, especially in Florida. But along with the rise of this means of travel comes with an increased risk of an accident. Local law enforcement officials are trying to spread this important message in and around St. John’s County.

The St. John’s County Sheriff’s Office began stressing necessary safety precautions after the occurrence of several golf cart crashes, the St. Augustine Record reported. They noted that they had seen an increase in reports of reckless and unsafe driving, as well as young children getting behind the wheel of carts The renewed attention to golf cart safety, particularly in St. John’s, came after a 14-year-old boy sustained a brain injury after a collision. The teen was briefly placed in a medically-induced coma after being thrown from the cart.

Similarly, a teenage girl sustained injuries when she fell from a golf cart and hit her head on her family’s home driveway. At the time of the accident, the teen driver of the vehicle was reportedly recklessly swerving in the cart.

Area deputies are attempting to educate local community members about the risks of golf carts and the necessary steps individuals need to take to protect themselves and others on the road. That includes adhering to posted speed limits and using carts only on approved roads.

There are numerous things drivers can do to cut down on the risk of a golf cart crash. Some of the same precautions that should come with getting behind the wheel of a car should also be taken when operating a cart, like following traffic signs, avoiding distractions, and giving someone else the keys if you have been drinking. Because golf carts are smaller, harder to see, and easier to tip over than larger vehicles, drivers should also use hand signals when turning and avoid making sharp turns at high speeds.

It is also essential to ensure that your golf cart has functioning seatbelts. These vital safety mechanisms play a crucial role in preventing people from being thrown from a golf cart in the event of a crash.

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a golf cart collision, you have the right to seek compensation from everyone responsible. That includes funds for medical bills, property damage, missed wages due to time away from work, and other financial consequences of the crash.

The Villages golf accident attorney has been representing individuals who have been injured in crashes for years. Our firm has a long track record of getting the best possible results for the people we represent. Contact our office today.