Golf carts are no longer just for the course. In Florida, they have become a popular mode of transportation for everything from neighborhood cruises to school pickups. While they offer convenience and fun, failing to follow Florida golf cart laws can lead to fines, accidents, and legal issues. Whether you are a seasoned golf cart owner or considering purchasing one, understanding the rules is essential to stay safe and compliant.
Where Can You Legally Drive a Golf Cart in Florida?
Unlike regular vehicles, golf carts are restricted to certain areas. Florida law states that golf carts can be driven on designated roads with speed limits of 35 mph or lower. Some communities allow them on local streets, while others prohibit them entirely.
- Private Property & Communities: Many residential neighborhoods, retirement communities, and resorts permit golf carts. Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) often have their own golf cart regulations in Florida.
- Public Roads: If a road is designated for golf cart use, it will have appropriate signage. Otherwise, standard roadways remain off-limits.
- Crossing Highways: Golf carts can only cross highways at approved intersections or crossings marked for golf cart use.
- Parks & Beaches: Some state parks and beach areas allow golf carts, but restrictions vary. Always check local ordinances before taking your golf cart off-road.
Ignoring these rules could result in hefty fines or liability for accidents.
Who Can Drive a Golf Cart in Florida?
Not just anyone can hop behind the wheel of a golf cart. Florida law has specific age and licensing requirements:
- Minimum Age: Drivers must be at least 14 years old to operate a golf cart on designated roads.
- Driver’s License: A license is not required for standard golf carts, but it is necessary for street-legal golf carts.
- Parental Responsibility: Parents or guardians may be held responsible if minors cause accidents or damage while driving a golf cart.
Failing to follow these rules could lead to legal trouble, especially if an underage or unlicensed driver causes an accident.
Golf Cart Safety and Equipment Requirements
Safety is a major concern when it comes to golf carts. Unlike cars, they lack many protective features, making proper equipment and responsible driving crucial.
Basic Safety Requirements:
- Lights & Reflectors: Golf carts used at night must have headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and reflective devices.
- Seat Belts: Not legally required for all golf carts but highly recommended.
- Speed Limits: Most golf carts operate at 12-15 mph, while street-legal carts can reach 20-25 mph.
- Passenger Limits: Overloading a golf cart increases the risk of tipping and accidents.
- Weather Caution: Avoid driving in heavy rain or thunderstorms. Golf carts offer little protection from Florida’s unpredictable weather.
Street-Legal Golf Carts vs. Standard Golf Carts
Not all golf carts are created equal. Some are street-legal, while others are strictly for off-road or private use.
Street-Legal Golf Carts (Low-Speed Vehicles or LSVs):
- Must have headlights, turn signals, seat belts, mirrors, DOT-approved tires, and a VIN.
- Require registration, insurance (PIP & PDL), and a valid driver’s license.
- Allowed on roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or lower.
Standard Golf Carts:
- No registration, insurance, or license required.
- Cannot be driven on public roads unless specifically allowed.
- Typically used on golf courses, private communities, and designated areas.
Liability and Legal Risks of Golf Cart Accidents
Golf carts may seem harmless, but accidents can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. Here are key liability concerns:
1. Owner Responsibility (Vicarious Liability):
Owners can be held accountable if someone else crashes their golf cart. If a guest, friend, or family member causes an accident, the owner may be liable for damages.
2. Insurance Gaps:
Many people assume that homeowners’ insurance covers golf cart accidents, but that is often not the case. Standard auto insurance does not cover golf carts unless explicitly included in the policy. Specialized golf cart insurance is highly recommended.
3. Financial Exposure:
Lawsuits resulting from injuries or property damage can lead to significant financial loss. Having proper insurance coverage and understanding liability laws can help prevent devastating legal battles.
4. Regulations and Stricter Laws:
As golf cart accidents increase, Florida cities are implementing stricter local laws, such as:
- Age restrictions for younger drivers.
- Increased insurance requirements for street-legal golf carts.
Golf Cart Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been involved in a golf cart accident, taking the right steps can protect your rights and potential compensation.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even minor injuries should be evaluated by a medical professional.
- Report the Accident – Notify local authorities, especially if there are injuries or property damage.
- Document the Scene – Take photos, gather witness statements, and note any road conditions.
- Contact an Attorney – A personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal options and seek fair compensation.
Get Legal Help from Panter, Panter & Sampedro
Golf cart accidents can result in serious injuries and legal complications. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, Panter, Panter & Sampedro’s experienced attorneys are here to help.
Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can assist you in seeking the compensation you deserve.
For more information, visit Panter, Panter & Sampedro’s Golf Cart Accidents Page.
Sources:
https://pimpedoutgolfcarts.com/comparison-of-street-legal-golf-carts-vs-regular-golf-carts/
https://panterlaw.com/transportation-traffic-accidents/golf-cart-accident/
https://www.flhsmv.gov/safety-center/consumer-education/low-speed-vehicles/
https://www.kandiamerica.com/street-legal-golf-cart-florida-laws/
https://golferhive.com/what-makes-a-golf-cart-street-legal/#google_vignette
https://ei1.com/safety-on-wheels-are-your-golf-carts-covered-under-osha-regulations/
https://legalbeagle.com/6714804-rules-driving-golf-carts-florida.html
https://www.flhsmv.gov/safety-center/consumer-education/low-speed-vehicles/
https://www.kandiamerica.com/street-legal-golf-cart-florida-laws/
