John Price Law Blog

The Rise of the Golf Cart

Note: This was featured as part of our Wednesday segment on Charleston’s 105.5 The Bridge with Box in the Morning. You can catch us every other Wednesday morning at 8:50 am ET for the latest law tips and legal news. You can listen to the segment below:

Golf carts are quickly becoming status symbols in suburban neighborhoods, especially here in the Lowcountry. They are a relaxing, convenient ride for errands or for a visit to your neighbor’s house. However, growing popularity also brings an increased risk of accidents, leading South Carolina legislators to pass several safety laws. The rules of the road are simple, but important to follow to ensure the safety of yourself and your family.

Registration: Every golf cart driven on public roads needs to be registered. A small fee of $5 is charged, and the papers must be kept with you at all times while driving.

Insurance: SC laws require golf carts to be protected with liability insurance. Insurance rates are relatively low, so it shouldn’t be an excessive burden on owners.

Restrictions: Golf carts are not allowed on roads with posted speed limits higher than 35 miles per hour. Since the average golf cart travels at 15 mph or less, we advise to drive cautiously on roads where traffic is moving 20 mph faster than your cart. Carts can only be driven within four miles of the home address on your registration papers.

Licensing: To legally drive a golf cart in SC, you must be 16 years of age or older and possess a valid driver’s license. Parents can be charged with child endangerment if an underage person causes an accident while driving a golf cart.

Safety: Although golf carts seem like a safe vehicle due to their slow speeds, accidents do happen. People can fall out of golf carts and get hit by a car, and the lack of seatbelts or airbags can make collisions very dangerous. It may also be difficult for other cars to see your cart if you’re driving at night.

Questions or need legal advice? Call John Price! We represent victims of auto accidents, personal injury, medical negligence, and employment discrimination. Give us a call at (843) 552-6011 or email us here.