If you're a golf cart owner or planning to buy one soon in Florida, you'll want to know about the new law recently passed regarding golf carts. This law affects who can operate a golf cart on county roads, municipal streets, or roads owned and maintained by a water control district. Don't worry, though, because we've got all the information you need to stay safe and compliant with Florida's law.

So, what exactly is the new law? HB 949 updates Florida's golf cart laws because of the growing safety concerns of the number of accidents by young teens and golf carts. The law takes effect on October 1, 2023, and prohibits people under 18 from operating a golf cart on certain roadways unless they have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit. People over the age of 18 must have a government-issued ID.

Many golf carts available on the market today can travel up to 20 mph, which may not sound fast, but to an inexperienced driver unfamiliar with the rules of the road, it can be scary. The average golf cart can weigh anywhere between 500 on the low side and up to 1200 lbs. depending on the golf cart's specific make, model, and batteries. Add some people to the golf cart, along with an inexperienced driver, and now there is cause for concern.

Florida law also requires that golf cart owners must carry insurance coverage, which can be added to their homeowner's insurance policy or purchased separately as golf cart insurance. It's important to note that failure to comply with these requirements can lead to fines and legal consequences, so it's in your best interest to follow the law.

Golf carts must also have safety standards if driven on public roads.  These safety standards include seat belts, turn signals, headlights, taillights, a horn, rear-view mirrors, and brakes that meet state standards. Additionally, golf carts can only be driven on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less, and they must display a license plate, a slow-moving vehicle emblem and meet specific lighting requirements. Golf cart owners must be responsible and cautious while operating their golf carts. Ensure all passengers are properly seated and wearing seat belts before starting the golf cart. Follow traffic rules and signals and stay within the speed limit on the roads. Use hand signals or the turn signals on the golf cart to indicate movements, and always be aware of other drivers and pedestrians around you. Remember, safety comes first! To learn more about golf carts equipped with these safety features, check out ICON Golf Carts and EPIC Golf Carts, both available at Hole In One Golf Cart, a dealer of ICON Golf Carts.

Failure to follow Florida's new golf cart law can result in fines and legal trouble. For example, if caught operating a golf cart on a public road without proper identification, you would be issued a non-criminal traffic violation and possibly incur fines. Or, for not having the proper safety equipment, you could receive a citation and incur fines. Apart from that, if you're involved in an accident while operating a golf cart on a public road, you may be held liable for damages and injuries that result from the accident. It's always better to comply with the law and stay safe to avoid unpleasant consequences.

So, what now? If you're a golf cart owner in Florida, you must ensure that your golf cart complies with the safety requirements and is covered by insurance before driving it on public roads or streets. Talk to your insurance provider to determine if your current policy covers your golf cart and get insurance if necessary. Ensure your golf cart has the required safety equipment, displays the slow-moving vehicle emblem, and meets the lighting requirements. Lastly, remember to practice safety and responsibility while driving your golf cart.

We hope this article has helped you understand Florida's new golf cart law and how it affects you as a golf cart owner. By following the law, you can ensure that you comply with the regulations and stay safe while operating your golf cart on public roads. If you have any questions or need more information about the new law, don't hesitate to consult with your local law enforcement agency or an experienced attorney. If you need more details on LSV golf carts, check out LSV Golf Carts. Remember, safety and compliance are crucial to enjoying your golf cart experience in Florida. Happy golf carting!