Florida Golf Cart Accident Lawyer

Many Florida communities are seeing an increase in golf cart traffic these days. People may choose to take these vehicles out on the roads to run errands or for enjoyment, in addition to using them on the golf course. With so many days of sunshine in Florida, it is not surprising that this form of open-air transportation is escalating in popularity.

Those traveling in golf carts generally do not have the benefits of seat belts and other protections found in cars and trucks. Moreover, because golf carts travel at a lower average speed than other vehicles, drivers could get annoyed and pass golf carts in an irresponsible manner.

It is wise for anyone suffering injuries in a collision involving a golf cart to talk to a Florida golf cart accident lawyer. When another driver’s negligence causes a golf cart accident, they could be held liable for the consequences. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney at Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa could help protect the rights and interests of those involved and fight to recover compensation to make up for losses caused by the collision.

Golf Cart Laws

Although golf carts could be rented to any adult, many international tourists and visitors from out of state could be unaware of Florida’s laws governing the operation of these vehicles. Cart drivers and those sharing the roads with them also need to be aware of the ordinances in towns such as Orlando, as well as the regulations established by individual communities such as Disney’s ChampionsGate.

Fla. Stat. §316.212 outlines the restrictions governing golf cart operation on public roads. For instance, Fla. Stat. §316.212(7) specifies that a driver must be at least 14 years of age to operate a golf cart on a public road. However, local government entities are allowed to impose stricter standards than the state. This statute also leaves some issues to be decided in local jurisdictions, such as the use of golf carts on sidewalks. Golf carts must meet specific criteria in order for them to be street legal and operated on public roads. According to Florida law, a golf cart must be equipped with efficient brakes, reliable steering apparatus, safe tires, a rearview mirror, and red reflectorized warning devices in both the front and rear.

The operation of golf carts on private property may also be governed by local policies. If someone who causes a golf cart accident is violating a Florida regulation, a local law, or a community rule, an attorney could use that violation to prove negligence and establish liability for the accident.

Statute of Limitations in Golf Cart Accident Cases

Individuals injured in golf cart accidents could be eligible to receive compensation to cover medical bills, to offset pain and suffering, and other effects of the accident. However, domestic and international tourists must prepare and file a claim before the deadline outlined by the statute of limitations. In most cases, the deadline to pursue legal action is four years from the time of the accident.

It is wise to begin working on a claim long before the limitations period expires. To prove causation and establish liability, the accident victim will need to work quickly to preserve evidence for later. A golf cart accident lawyer in Florida could begin collecting evidence right away.

Consult a Florida Golf Cart Accident Attorney

Golf carts can be dangerous to both those riding on and sharing the road with them. Motorists often fail to provide adequate clearance when passing a golf cart or take irresponsible actions due to impatience. At the same time, people operating golf carts may themselves drive recklessly because they view a golf cart as more of a toy than a motorized vehicle.

Regardless of the type of irresponsible behavior, when it causes harm to others, the person failing to exercise reasonable care could be held liable for injuries. If you or a loved one suffered an injury in an incident involving a golf cart, talk to a Florida golf cart accident lawyer to learn about your legal options. A personal injury attorney at Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa could help you recover the fair compensation you need to help you move forward after your injury.