Before deciding whether or not you want to ride your golf cart on the road, there are a few things you should take into account. With these tips in mind, you can ensure your cart is safe and legal for use while driving it on public roads.
Speed Limits
Golf carts are classified as low-speed vehicles (LSVs), and the rules that apply to them on the road differ by state. Generally speaking, LSVs must travel on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or lower; however, Texas and Alaska allow them to exceed that speed limit at 45 mph.
When driving a golf cart, the speed should be determined by factors like terrain, equipment and passenger safety as well as existing traffic conditions. Driving too quickly increases your chance of getting into an accident, so try to stay within the speed limit whenever possible.
Many cities and towns allow golf carts to be operated on city streets. There is usually a governing body that monitors this activity and requires that they meet safety requirements. Furthermore, they require vehicles to display a slow moving vehicle sign as well as a bicycle safety flag for added protection.
Safety Requirements
If you plan to ride golf carts on the road, there are certain safety requirements that must be fulfilled. These include abiding by traffic laws, wearing a seatbelt and yielding to pedestrians.
First and foremost, ensure the cart you are riding is legal for street use in your state. Otherwise, legal issues could arise.
Additionally, it is essential that you are in complete control of your cart’s speed. This is especially critical if the weather conditions are wet or icy.
Another important tip to remember is to always keep both hands and feet inside the vehicle at all times. Doing this helps avoid your arms getting caught on something and pulling you out of the cart – an extremely hazardous situation which could result in injuries or even death.
License Requirements
If you are considering hitting the road in your golf cart, there are a few things to consider. First of all, ensure your cart is licensed in your home state.
If not, you could face legal repercussions. To find out what steps need to be taken, consult your local law enforcement agency or Department of Transportation.
According to local laws, you might need to install certain safety components on your car. These could include mirrors or a windshield.
Your cart’s safety should always come first, ensuring it satisfies all local, state and federal requirements. This includes having a lighted license plate, vehicle identification number, horn and speedometer among others.
In order to drive a street legal golf cart, you must possess both a valid driver’s license and be at least 21 years old. Furthermore, having insurance is recommended; it will help cover any accidents or damages that might happen while riding your cart on public roads.
Lights
Driving a golf cart at night can be hazardous, so it is essential to have the appropriate lights. Not only will these help you see the road ahead, but they will also enable pedestrians and bicyclists to see you as well.
LED headlights have become a popular choice for golf carts, as they look brighter than traditional halogen bulbs while using about 60% less power. Furthermore, these bulbs are more durable and can withstand harsh weather better than their halogen counterparts.
It is essential to remember that not all LED light kits are compatible with every golf cart model. This is because some have unique-shaped headlights.
To get a light kit that works with your cart, it is best to go with a brand that specializes in this kind of product. This way, you can be certain the lights are correctly installed and the wiring harness is compatible with your cart’s body.
Chris is a passionate learner and writer. When he’s not working on his blog or learning something new, he’s a full-time systems administrator and father of two beautiful girls. Chris loves spending time with his family, reading, writing, and playing hockey.