Owning a golf cart doesn’t require being a golfer; they are becoming increasingly popular among those living in warmer climates such as Florida and Arizona and those living in scattered retirement communities. Furthermore, resorts, seaside towns, and islands are typical places where golf carts can be found.
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 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. 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 above 35 mph.
- Golf carts must have seat belts like regular cars, and drivers and passengers must always use them.
- 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 easily seen by other vehicles.
- Golf carts must have brakes, turn signals, side mirrors, and rearview mirrors.
Read: Difference between personal and commercial auto insurance
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 rules for 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 several 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 it. Some policies may also include coverage for theft, vandalism, and different 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 protects from lawsuits for injury or damage to individuals due to you operating the vehicle.
- Medical payment may cover specific medical expenses for you, your passengers, or anyone hit by a golf cart due to operating your vehicle.
- Collision insurance Covers damage to golf carts due to accidents, 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 to several thousand dollars annually. 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
Can I add a golf cart to my car insurance?
Most, but not all, standard car insurance policies will not cover golf carts. Drivers often need to purchase a separate policy designed to protect golf carts. This type of policy will cover damage to the golf cart itself and liability coverage if you cause an accident while operating the golf cart.
A final word on golf cart insurance
It repeats itself: if you’re unsure if you need golf cart insurance where you live, check with your state department of motor vehicle and your lender (if applicable).
Remember that the specific coverage options and limits included in a golf cart insurance policy may vary depending on your chosen insurance company and policy. You should carefully review policy details and consider your needs and risks before deciding on a policy.
If that sounds like many things to remember, you’ve come to the right place. Our Guided Solutions team can help assess whether you need insurance for your cart, compare available rates, and find the right policy for your needs..
