Practicing Golf Cart Safety

It’s no surprise that driving a golf cart is generally safer than driving a car. The vehicles are lighter, slower and driven in areas with less traffic. However, as with all motor vehicles, there are still risks involved and safety should be practiced with every ride across the green.

The first step in driving your golf cart safely is keeping up with routine maintenance. Just like cars, golf carts also include a recommended manufacturer’s servicing schedule. While a mechanic can take care of most of these tasks, you should keep a close eye on battery maintenance. In some cases, golf cart batteries may fail or even explode if they’re overcharged. The owner’s manual provides correct charging procedures.

Beyond maintenance, golf cart safety also relies on how you drive the vehicle. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind, whether driving your golf cart to the next par or through the gated community you live in.

• Stay alert to potential hazards in your path.
• Avoid distractions like using a cell phone while driving.
• Do not drive faster than conditions allow.
• Familiarize yourself with the vehicle’s weight limits and do not exceed this capacity.
• When hauling golf clubs or other loads, be sure to secure items down and prevent them from blocking your view.
• Since most golf carts are not street legal, stick to sidewalks when possible. Only drive on a roadway to cross from one side to the other.
• When parking a golf cart, do not block entrances to buildings, fire lanes, disability ramps or stairways.

Though not as common as with cars, golf cart accidents do occur. These accidents can cause property damage and injury. Buying a golf cart insurance policy helps protect your finances from a variety of covered events, including theft and vandalism. Do you own a golf cart? One of the biggest safety measures you can take is talking to your independent insurance agent about coverage.

Get the coverage you need. Call Ramey Insurance Agency at (941) 497-2468 for more information on golf cart insurance.