Golf carts make going around the course easy. They’ve become increasingly popular due to their convenience and affordability. These days, they’re not just on golf courses but also in retirement communities and resorts. But with this popularity comes questions about the safety of these vehicles—a question that insurance agents must consider before offering coverage.
All About Golf Carts
It’s important to understand that golf carts are low-speed vehicles (LSVs). It means they can travel up to 25 mph and are generally considered safe for operation on paved roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less.
However, even if the speed limit is lower than 35 mph, insurance agents should still caution their clients about the potential risks of operating a golf cart in certain conditions. Likewise, most LSVs come equipped with safety features such as headlights and turn signals. But they may need more than these to provide adequate visibility in poor weather conditions or at night.
Golf carts are often heavier than other motorized vehicles. Ultimately, it makes them more challenging to handle when braking or turning sharply. It is especially true if the driver is inexperienced or unfamiliar with the operation of a golf cart. Therefore, insurance agents should advise their clients to take a few lessons from an experienced driving instructor before navigating roads with their LSV.
Getting Golf Accident Insurance
Your clients should also protect themselves from potential risks by getting golf accident insurance. This insurance can help to cover medical bills or other costs associated with an accident.
Golf carts generally face less protection than other motorized vehicles in the event of a collision. Also, because they lack airbags and seatbelts, passengers may be more likely to suffer severe injuries if an accident occurs. Insurance agents should remind their clients that wearing a helmet and other protective gear is essential for the safe operation of an LSV.
Safety Features
The good news is that most golf carts are relatively safe. As with any vehicle, there is a risk of accidents and injuries. But most golf cart manufacturers have put in place safety features that help to reduce the chance of injury while operating them, such as:
Seatbelts
Most golf carts now come with seat belts for the driver and passengers. It helps to ensure that everyone is securely fastened in their seats during operation.
Rollover Protection
Manufacturers build golf carts with roll bars or cages, which help to protect occupants from being crushed or thrown out of the cart in case of a rollover accident.
Speed Limiting Devices
They equip most golf carts with speed-limiting devices to ensure they don’t exceed a certain speed. It helps to limit the severity of any potential accidents.
Braking Systems
Most golf carts come with a hydraulic braking system that helps to stop the cart quickly and safely. It is essential to ensure the brakes have proper maintenance so they don’t become worn out over time.
About T2 Green Insurance
T2Green Insurance provides comprehensive insurance that is customized to your club, resort, or golf management company, from industry professionals whose sole focus is insuring this class. We are dedicated to providing you with innovative products, underwriting expertise, and exceptional results so that your insurance needs are covered with confidence. Reach us at 844-223-9005 with any questions or so we can begin tailoring a package that works best for your club.
