Golf Cart Accident Attorneys in Greenville, South Carolina
Working for You in Greenville
Golf cart accidents happen every day in South Carolina. Did you know that Golf carts are considered cars because of their self-propelled engines, regardless of their power source? By their definition, carts pull things, and cars are manufactured to propel them, so the “golf cart” title is a bit of a misnomer. That aside, many people operate these vehicles without considering the potential risk factors. Golf carts may be self-propelled vehicles and considered cars; however, few of them have undergone safety upgrades equipping them with the features of a typical passenger vehicle, like seatbelts, airbags, and other safety equipment meant to mitigate or prevent serious injuries or death in the event of an accident.
These aspects make golf carts and their passengers as vulnerable as bicyclists or pedestrians on public roads. With the increase in tourism traffic and congestion from everyday commuting, golf carts are being used more frequently as an alternative form of transportation on Greenville streets. If you or a loved one have been injured due to someone’s negligence in a golf cart accident and are struggling to get the compensation you deserve, call Armada Law at 864-633-3739 for a free consultation. Our golf cart lawyers are working for you.
Are Golf Carts Legal on Greenville Public Roads?
Yes, golf carts are legal on Greenville public roads but must be adjusted to meet specific requirements. These requirements have multiple steps, including processes for registration, insurance, and what you need to know about particular laws about golf carts in South Carolina.
Registration Process to Make a Golf Cart Street Legal
- The South Carolina DMV requires a permit and registration for your golf cart before it can be operated on the street. To do this:
- Complete the golf cart permit registration form. You can obtain the form online or from the SCDMV website.
- Provide proof of golf cart insurance
- Supply a copy of your South Carolina driver’s license number
- Pay a $5 golf cart permit fee
Once approved, you’ll receive your decal, which must always be displayed when you operate your golf cart on public roads.
Licensing Requirements for Golf Cart Drivers
Only licensed drivers 16 years or older can legally operate a registered golf cart on South Carolina streets. Drivers must have their valid driver’s license while operating the vehicle; the same rules and regulations apply when operating a car. Unlicensed drivers could face severe criminal penalties even if the golf cart is registered correctly.
Liability Considerations for Golf Cart Owners
Be aware that allowing underaged, unlicensed, or impaired drivers to operate your registered golf cart is a crime. As the owner, you can face criminal or civil liability if an accident occurs. Only allowing appropriately licensed, aged, and sober people to operate your vehicle is advisable. If you need help, call Armada Law. Our Golf cart accident attorneys are on your side.
Safety Equipment Modifications Required to Make Golf Carts Street Legal
The law states that specific safety equipment must be stalled for Golf carts to be on public roads. To make a golf cart street legal:
- Headlights and taillights must be installed for better visibility at night, in bad weather, or low light
- Turn signals
- Seatbelts for all seating positions
- Rearview and side mirrors
- Windshield for wind and debris protection
- Front and rear parking brakes
Be aware that even with these modifications, golf carts do not operate the same as passenger vehicles, so reduced speeds and extreme caution are necessary. Always be mindful of your surroundings; defensive driving practices are strongly advised. Avoid distractions and be cautious and courteous to other vehicles on the road.
Are There Special Laws That Pertain to Golf Carts?
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety provides the following checklist for driving a golf cart on public roads:
- The golf cart must be insured, permitted, and registered with the SCDMV
- The golf cart must remain within 4 miles of an address listed on the SCDMV permit
- The golf cart may be operated on roads with posted speeds of 35 mph or less
- The golf cart may be operated during daylight hours only
- Driver must be 16 years or older and have a valid driver’s license
What Causes Most Golf Cart Accidents?
Golf carts are often seen as fun alternatives to traditional modes of transportation. The problem with this attitude is that it leads people to view them without the seriousness that operating a motor vehicle requires. That leads to negligence and distracted driving, two of the most common culprits of golf cart accidents. Other common causes are:
- Lack of required safety modifications
- Uneven terrain
- Passengers under the influence of drugs or alcohol causing distraction or danger to themselves or the driver
- Driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol. People sometimes believe that it’s not a real car; therefore, it won’t count as an actual DUI if they get caught. They are wrong. It will count. It is a real car, it is an actual DUI, and it is a real crime.
- Distracted Driving
When Should I Call A Golf Cart Accident Lawyer?
Golf cart accidents can be severe and even life-threatening. If you or a loved one have been injured in a golf cart accident, or if you have lost a loved one due to someone’s negligence, Armada Law has your back every step of the way. You need a firm that will make you part of the team and work with you to find the best solution to your claim. Armada Law fights for you.
Call us at 864-633-3739 for a free consultation.