Golf Cart Safety – Even the Police Have Concerns

Golf carts are an increasingly popular way to get from one place to another, especially in the Sunshine State of Florida. But along with the rise of this means of travel comes 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 and 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.

Golf Cart Safety Basics

Area deputies in the Sunshine State 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 reduce the risk of a golf cart crash. When you operate a cart, take the same precautions as when you get behind the wheel of a car. Follow traffic signs, avoid distractions, and hand the keys to someone else if you have been drinking. Golf carts are smaller and harder to see; drivers should use hand signals when turning and avoid sharp, fast turns.

It is also essential to ensure that your golf cart has functioning seatbelts. These vital safety mechanisms help prevent people from being thrown from a golf cart during a crash.

Hurt in an Accident? Speak to an Experienced The Villages Attorney

In Florida, if you or a loved one is injured in a golf cart accident, you can seek compensation from those responsible. This includes funds for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and other financial consequences of the crash.

The Villages golf accident attorney has successfully represented injured individuals 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.