Your guide to staying safe, wherever your golf cart takes you
Golf carts aren't just for golfing these days. They're also a convenient way to get around residential neighborhoods, retirement communities (where allowed); they're big at campgrounds, festivals, and events; and some areas are even allowing them on trails normally reserved for hiking and biking. And while it can be a lot of fun to drive, it's important to remember that a golf cart is not a toy, and golf cart safety should be taken seriously. Read on for some important golf cart safety tips to help keep you, and everyone around you, safe.
Golf cart safety basics
Read the owner's manual for important safety information and to get to know your vehicle.
During lightning stay away from your golf cart and golf clubs.
Check your state's laws for driver's license requirements.
Only carry the number of passengers you have seats or seat belts for.
Operate a cart from the driver's seat ONLY.
Always fully engage the parking brake and remove the key before leaving the vehicle.
While you're driving
Obey and follow all traffic rules.
Keep feet, legs, hands, and arms inside vehicle at all times.
Make sure the direction selector is in the correct position before accelerating.
Always bring the golf cart to a full stop before shifting direction.
Slow down before and during turns.
Check behind you before operating in reverse.
Always yield to pedestrians.
Use seatbelts, if available.
Do not text and drive the golf cart.
Do not allow anyone to stand in a moving golf cart.
Do not drive the cart while intoxicated.
Adapting to your terrain
Use extra care and reduced speed when driving in poor conditions or on poor surfaces.
Avoid extremely rough terrain.
Don't drive fast downhill, and avoid steep slopes.
Be aware that sudden stops or change of direction could make you lose control of the vehicle.
