Golf carts are an icon of Floridian lifestyle. From enjoying a leisurely drive through an actual golf course enjoying the sunshine, to motoring around your own neighborhood or a vacation town…golf carts are a great means of casual transportation when you don’t have far to go and enjoy a slower pace. Because of their recreational nature though, and assumed lack of risk, many people don’t consider accidents (and resulting liability) when it comes to golf carts. If someone gets injured, who is at fault and what kind of case would be on the table for both parties?
Here are a few facts to consider when you are pondering getting a golf cart, or if you’ve been injured in an accident related to one of these vehicles and are wondering what to do next:
- Age Matters. Law requires that the driver of a golf cart must be at least 14 years of age. If you were injured while someone younger was behind the wheel, the parents of the child at fault could be held liable for your damages and/or injuries.
- Maintenance Is Required. While the requirements for a golf cart are pretty lenient, they must have a functioning brake system, steering system, and good tires. Keeping your golf cart in good shape makes sure it runs well and won’t fail on you when it matters most. For example, brakes going out when you are crossing a busy street could be dangerous for you, your passengers, and for other drivers.
- “Don’t Drink and Drive” Still Applies. For some reason golf carts are not seen as a vehicle by many people. After a long day at the beach, or a full afternoon at the golf course with buddies, a driver will easily climb behind the wheel of a golf cart after too much to drink. If you’re too inebriated to drive a regular car, you’re not sober enough to drive a golf cart either. The rules don’t change based on the vehicle. If you’re drunk and behind the wheel, you’re liable.
Sessums Law Group is proud to represent those who have been injured or suffered damages due to the negligence of others, whether through a vehicle accident or other types of personal injury. We have locations throughout the greater Tampa Bay Area, and when you call us to take your case, you can rest easy knowing that WE STAND FOR YOU!