Experience in Golf Cart Cases Matters
Our golf cart accident litigation experience speaks for itself. In a recent case in Florida, we secured a $7 million settlement for Simon Rider, a golf cart accident victim who suffered a traumatic brain injury. We worked with top accident reconstruction, physics, and medical experts to prove negligence and ensure that Mr. Rider received the financial protection he needed for life.
Read more about our $7 million golf cart accident settlement here
Understanding Golf Cart Accidents in Florida
Golf carts are commonly used beyond the golf course in Florida, especially in South Florida. Many Florida communities, resorts, and commercial areas allow golf carts as a convenient mode of transportation. However, because these vehicles lack the same safety features as traditional cars, accidents can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities.
Common Causes of Golf Cart Accidents
- Reckless or Inexperienced Driving – Many drivers of golf carts do not have formal training, leading to unsafe maneuvers and increased accident risks.
- Mechanical Failures – Defective brakes, steering malfunctions, or battery issues can cause a serious crash.
- Collisions with Other Vehicles or Objects – Golf carts frequently share roads with cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Lack of Safety Features – Most golf carts do not have seat belts, airbags, or other standard safety measures found in traditional vehicles.
- Poorly Maintained Paths or Roadways – Uneven surfaces, potholes, or improperly maintained golf courses can cause a golf cart to overturn or crash.
If any of these factors played a role in your accident, you may be able to seek compensation from a negligent party.
Golf Cart Accident Statistics in Florida
Florida has one of the highest rates of golf cart-related accidents in the country due to its widespread use of these vehicles in retirement communities, resorts, and residential areas. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), thousands of golf cart accidents occur annually, with many resulting in serious injuries.
Key Golf Cart Accident Statistics:
- Over 4,000 golf cart-related injuries occur each year in the U.S., with Florida leading in reported cases.
- Nearly 40% of all golf cart accidents involve individuals under the age of 16, often due to inexperience and lack of proper supervision.
- Approximately 30% of golf cart accidents involve a rollover, often caused by sharp turns, high speeds, or unstable terrain.
- The majority of fatal golf cart accidents involve head trauma, as most golf carts lack seat belts or protective enclosures.
- Many accidents occur in gated communities and golf courses, where regulations for golf cart use may not be strictly enforced.
Who is Liable for a Golf Cart Accident in Miami
Determining liability in a golf cart accident is crucial to building a strong personal injury case. Liability may fall on one or more of the following parties:
- Golf Cart Driver – If the driver was operating the golf cart negligently, such as speeding or driving under the influence, they may be held responsible.
- Another Motorist – If a car, truck, or other vehicle collides with a golf cart, the driver of that vehicle may be liable.
- Property Owner or Management Company – If the accident occurred on a golf course, resort, or private community due to poorly maintained paths or lack of proper signage, the property owner may be responsible.
- Golf Cart Manufacturer – If a defect in the golf cart contributed to the crash, the manufacturer may be held accountable.
- Employer or Rental Company – If the golf cart was rented or provided for work-related use, the employer or rental company may be responsible for negligence in maintenance or training.
Each case is unique, and our experienced personal injury attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation to determine who is responsible for your injuries.
Common Injuries in Golf Cart Accidents
Although golf carts may not seem as dangerous as larger vehicles, they can still cause serious harm. Common injuries include:
- Head Trauma & Concussions – Golf carts often lack protective enclosures, making passengers vulnerable to head injuries in an accident.
- Broken Bones & Fractures – Being thrown from a golf cart or trapped under one can lead to severe fractures.
- Spinal Cord Injuries & Paralysis – A rollover or high-impact crash can cause debilitating spinal injuries.
- Soft Tissue Damage & Lacerations – Cuts, bruises, and ligament damage are common in accidents involving golf carts.
- Internal Injuries – Blunt force trauma from a collision may lead to life-threatening internal bleeding and organ damage.
If you or a loved one suffered any of these injuries, seeking immediate medical attention and legal guidance is critical.
What to Do After a Golf Cart Accident in Florida
If you’ve been involved in a golf cart accident, taking the right steps can help protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if your injuries seem minor, they can worsen over time. Get evaluated by a medical professional immediately.
- Report the Accident – Notify the police, property owner, or relevant authority about the accident.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Get Witness Statements – If there were any bystanders, obtain their contact information and statements.
- Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters – Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. Do not provide statements without legal counsel.
- Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer – An attorney can help you understand your legal options and pursue fair compensation.
How an Attorney Can Help with Your Golf Cart Injury Case
Navigating the aftermath of a golf cart accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with injuries, medical expenses, and insurance companies. An experienced personal injury attorney can play a crucial role in securing the compensation you deserve while allowing you to focus on your recovery.
At Panter, Panter & Sampedro, we take a strategic approach to every case by:
- Investigating the accident thoroughly – We collect evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, surveillance footage, and expert testimony to build a strong case.
- Determining liability – We identify the responsible parties, whether it’s another driver, a property owner, a manufacturer, or another negligent entity.
- Negotiating with insurance companies – Insurance providers often attempt to minimize payouts. We handle all negotiations to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
- Calculating the full extent of your damages – Beyond immediate medical costs, we assess long-term medical care, rehabilitation, lost earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary – If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court and advocate aggressively on your behalf.
Compensation Available for Golf Cart Accident Victims
Victims of golf cart accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses – Hospital bills, surgeries, physical therapy, and future medical care.
- Lost Wages & Reduced Earning Capacity – If your injury prevents you from working temporarily or permanently.
- Pain & Suffering – Physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Permanent Disability or Long-Term Care Costs – If the injury leads to long-term impairment.
- Wrongful Death Damages – If a loved one was fatally injured in a golf cart accident, surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and more.
Our firm has successfully recovered millions for clients, including a $7 million settlement in the case of Simon Rider, who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a golf cart accident. We fight tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation possible under Florida law.
Why Choose Panter, Panter & Sampedro to Represent Your Golf Cart Accident Case?
At Panter, Panter & Sampedro, we have a proven track record of successfully representing golf cart accident victims in Miami and throughout South Florida. We fight aggressively to hold negligent parties accountable and secure the maximum compensation possible for our clients.
When you choose our firm, you are choosing:
- Experienced Trial Lawyers – We don’t just settle cases; we prepare to win in court.
- Personalized Legal Representation – Every case is unique, and we provide dedicated attention to each client.
- No Fees Unless You Win – We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you.
Read more about our $7 million golf cart accident settlement here
If you or a loved one has been injured in a golf cart accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice you deserve.
FAQs
I Was Driving a Golf Cart in the Street and Was in an Accident
Golf carts are increasingly used on public streets in Miami and other parts of South Florida, but their presence on the road raises unique legal questions. If you were driving a golf cart on a public street and were involved in an accident, the circumstances of the crash will determine your legal options. Liability may rest on another driver if they were negligent, such as speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield. However, if you were driving on a road where golf carts are not legally permitted, it could impact your claim.
Florida law allows golf carts on certain roads, but they must comply with local regulations, including speed limits and proper safety features. If your golf cart was legally on the road and another vehicle caused the accident, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Additionally, if a defect in the golf cart contributed to the crash, the manufacturer or rental company may be liable. At Panter, Panter & Sampedro, we have experience handling complex golf cart accident cases and can help you navigate your legal options to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Can I Legally Drive a Golf Cart on Public Roads in Florida?
In Florida, golf carts are permitted on certain public roads, but strict regulations apply. Florida law allows golf carts to operate on public roads where the posted speed limit is 35 mph or lower, but local municipalities may establish additional restrictions. Some areas require golf carts to have safety features such as headlights, turn signals, and seat belts, especially if they are classified as low-speed vehicles (LSVs).
Key Legal Requirements for Golf Carts on Florida Roads:
- Golf carts can only be driven on designated roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less unless otherwise allowed by local ordinance.
- No driver’s license is required for a golf cart, but operators must be at least 14 years old.
- Golf carts cannot be operated at night unless equipped with headlights, taillights, and turn signals.
- Certain roads, communities, and golf course paths may have additional rules, so checking with local authorities is essential.
- LSVs (Low-Speed Vehicles) differ from golf carts and require registration, insurance, and a valid driver’s license.
If you are unsure whether your golf cart was legally allowed on the road at the time of your accident, our attorneys can investigate the circumstances and determine the best course of action for your case.
Contact Us Today – Get a Free Consultation
Time is limited to file a claim. Florida law imposes strict deadlines on personal injury cases, so acting quickly is crucial.
Call Panter, Panter & Sampedro today to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
