You don’t have to be a golfer to own your own golf cart. Golf carts are the preferred way to get around in areas popular with retirees and others living in warmer climates — like Florida and Arizona — that have more than 55 scattered communities. They are also increasingly seen in resorts, seaside towns and resort islands.
Do golf carts have a time?
There are many reasons why people like to use golf carts to get around.
- They are very convenient: Golf carts are easy to maneuver and can be driven on the streets and pathways in the community. They’re perfect for 18-hole golfers in the heat as well as for older adults who may not feel comfortable driving a car but still want to maintain a sense of independence, run errands, and stay connected. the others.
- They are cost effective: Golf carts are cheaper than cars and easier to maintain, a big bonus for fixed-income retirees. And because they run on electric batteries, there’s no fuel to buy and they produce no emissions, so they’re very eco-friendly.
- They are accessibility friendly: Golf carts can be modified to accommodate different mobility issues, such as adding manual controls, power steering and other adaptive equipment.
Golf cart safety
While golf carts are a practical and fun way for users to get around, golf courses and retirement communities often have specific rules and guidelines for their use. This is especially important as golf cart owners increasingly use their golf carts on public roads.
If it’s like you or a family member or friend, here are some safety tips you should know:
- Although it is not a legal car, drivers must obey all traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits and traffic signals. And avoid driving on busy roads with speed limit signs higher than 35 mph.
- Golf carts must have seat belts like regular cars and drivers and passengers must use them at all times.
- If they are driving at night or in low light, they must have well-maintained and functioning headlights and taillights, with reflective paint or side strips that are easily seen by other vehicles.
- Golf carts must have brakes, turn signals, side mirrors and rearview mirrors.
Do I need insurance for my golf cart?
Golf carts are often considered “low-speed vehicles” and are not subject to the same regulations as traditional passenger vehicles. However, in some states, golf carts may be required to be registered and insured if used on public roads or streets. These requirements vary from state to state, so you should check with your state’s department of motor vehicles to determine the specific rules that apply to your golf cart and other vehicles. .
If you only use your golf cart on private property, such as on a golf course or in a gated community, you may not be required to purchase insurance. However, even if street-legal golf cart insurance isn’t legally required, you should still protect yourself and your property with golf cart insurance. This decision can depend on a number of factors, including where you live, how you use your golf cart, and whether or not you own it outright.
If you borrow money to buy a golf cart, your lender will want to protect their investment and require you to purchase insurance. In this case, you may need to provide proof of insurance before owning a golf cart.
What does golf cart insurance cover?
Golf cart insurance policies typically cover damage to the golf cart itself and injury or damage to other people or property that may occur while operating the golf cart. Some policies may also include coverage for theft, vandalism, and other types of loss.
Typical insurance:
- Physical damage legal responsibility can help protect you if you are sued for property damage caused by operating your golf cart.
- personal injury liability provides protection from lawsuits for injury or damage to individuals as a result of you operating the vehicle.
- medical payment may cover specific medical expenses for you, your passengers or anyone who is hit by a golf cart as a result of operating your vehicle.
- collision insurance Covers damage to golf carts due to accident, theft or other covered events.
- uninsured driver Covers injuries or damage if you have an accident with an uninsured (or underinsured) driver while operating your golf cart.
- Personal property Coverage for anything damaged, stolen or lost when stored in a golf cart, such as golf clubs or electronic equipment.
- comprehensive insurance will help protect you if your golf cart is stolen or damaged by hail, flood, lightning or natural fire.
How much does golf cart insurance cost?
The cost of golf cart insurance depends on the value of the vehicle, its age, where it’s typically used and stored, and the coverage limit you choose. Depending on these and other factors, you can generally expect to pay anywhere from under a hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per year. For a more accurate estimate of how much you might pay to insure your golf cart, it’s a good idea to get policy quotes from several insurance companies – something we can help you with.
Can I add a golf cart to my car insurance?
Most, but not all, standard car insurance policies will not cover golf carts. Drivers will often need to purchase a separate policy specifically designed to cover golf carts. This type of policy will provide coverage for damage to the golf cart itself and liability coverage in the event that you cause an accident while operating the golf cart.
Final word on golf cart insurance
It repeats itself: if you’re not sure if you need golf cart insurance where you live, check with your state department of motor vehicle and with your lender (if applicable).
Keep in mind that the specific coverage options and limits included in a golf cart insurance policy may vary depending on the insurance company and policy you choose. You should carefully review policy details and consider your specific needs and risks before deciding on a policy.
