Golf carts have been increasingly popular in recent years, becoming a viable form of transportation for both recreational and daily uses. Whether you are a retiree wanting to tour your retirement community or a family looking to get around that tricky summer traffic jam on the way to the beach, golf carts give you the speed and flexibility that cars may not be able to deliver within certain settings. Before you buy one however, there are some key factors to consider in order make sure that you purchase the right type of golf cart for your needs. In this blog post we'll discuss what those considerations should include so read on and let's figure out how best together!

What are Electric Golf Carts?

Electric golf carts are a great alternative to gas-powered golf carts. They are more environmentally friendly and can be charged with solar power, wind power or grid electricity. There are many different types of electric golf carts available on the market today, including:

• Two-seater models for two people
• Four-seater models that can seat four people comfortably (sometimes five)
• Six-seaters with room for your clubs!
• Eight-seater models that are great for businesses who need to move people.
• Utility models that haul bulky items or materials.
  
  

Electric golf carts have many advantages over traditional gas-powered ones: they're quieter than gas-powered vehicles; they don't emit any fumes into the air; they have zero emissions, so you won't have to worry about harming our environment; they're easier on your wallet since you'll save money on fuel costs each month; plus, there's no need for maintenance like regular cars require because these vehicles don't use oil or gasoline!

Where to Find Electric Golf Carts in Southwest Florida

Electric golf carts are an increasingly popular option for retirees and those who live in golf communities. They're also a great way to get around if you have mobility issues, as they're easier to drive than gas-powered carts and don't require any special training or licensing if the driver meets the eligibility criteria under Florida law. Make no mistake though, golf carts are NOT just for golf anymore! People use them to take their children to the bus stop, pick up groceries, even walk their dog.
Here are some places where you can find electric golf carts:

• Golf cart dealerships. If you want a new one, this is your best bet! You can expect to pay anywhere from $9000 on up depending on the make, model, lift, its size and features (like whether it has cup holders or other added accessories). Be sure to ask about warranties before making a purchase--they range from one year up through three years depending on what kind of model you buy. You should also ask about the dealerships service department and what you can expect if your cart needs to be serviced down the road. 
• Rental companies will rent out their fleet of electric vehicles at very reasonable rates. They also provide maintenance services so that everything runs smoothly while guests enjoy their stay.
• Private owners. You may find a great deal from a private owner. Keep in mind that just like buying a used car, there could be underlying issues that are not disclosed to you. Many golf carts in Southwest Florida were water damaged from Hurricane Ian and may have ongoing electrical and mechanical issues down the road as a result of being in water. To check for a tell-tale sign of water damage, lift the seat up and look for a water line in the battery compartment area. 

Golf Cart Accessories

Golf cart accessories are an important part of the game. They help you take the ride in your golf cart experience to the next level and make it more enjoyable. You can get a lot of accessories for your golf cart, including:

• Golf cart enclosures
• Golf cart covers
• Club protectors
• Bluetooth Speakers
• Cup holders
• Underbody lighting
• Decals and pinstripes
• Custom seats
• Custom floor mats
• Wheels and tires
• Golf cart heaters
  Golf carts are also available in different models, lifts, and colors depending on your preferences (Some communities have guidelines for the types of golf carts they allow. Please check your communities’ specific guidelines for golf carts).

Electric Golf Cart Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps to keep your golf cart in good working order. If you are new to golf carts, take the time to learn what maintenance your golf cart will need and when the maintenance should be performed. AGM batteries are great because they are maintenance free. Golf cart tires can be upgraded to steel-belted radials (like your car). If your golf cart will sit for extended periods of time, traditional golf cart tires may develop flat spots from sitting too long. If you can have someone drive your golf cart periodically, this helps or consider upgrading your tires. When deciding on a golf cart consider the following:

• Battery maintenance
• How to charge your golf cart properly
• Tire maintenance
• Engine maintenance
• Regular check-ups

Golf Cart Safety

Your golf cart has four wheels, but it is an open sided vehicle. Consider the following precautions to enjoy a safe ride in your golf cart:

• Drive safely. Golf carts are not intended for highway use, so you'll want to keep your speed down and obey all traffic laws. If you have a LSV (low-speed vehicle) you may travel with traffic at posted speed limits up to 35 mph and cross over roads that are posted 45 mph or less. 
• Always wear a seatbelt, even if you're driving on private property or in an enclosed golf course area. Especially passengers who are sitting on the back seat.
• Always keep your hands on the wheel when driving--don't use them as an armrest or support yourself against the dashboard! If you need something from the floorboard, make sure that any passengers have their hands on their own grab bar before moving around in your cart.
• Insure your golf cart. Many companies offer a golf cart policy that may be inexpensive. However, if your golf cart is an LSV (low-speed vehicle) you will be required by Florida law to maintain comprehensive insurance on your golf cart. 

Golf Cart Storage

When you're not using your golf cart, it's important to store it properly. Here are some tips:

• Indoor storage is ideal if possible. If you don't have a garage or other indoor space, consider covering your golf cart with a cover when not in use. Make sure that no part of the vehicle is exposed to rain or sun damage by making sure there are no gaps between the cover and the body of your vehicle.
• Outdoor storage can be done as well--just make sure that there isn't too much exposure to heat or cold temperatures during winter months (or summer months in Florida!). If possible, keep them under cover so they don't get damaged by rainwater runoff from nearby roofs or trees overhead. Protect your golf cart from the elements - If storing outdoors year-round without adequate protection from UV rays could lead over time to fading paint jobs which could affect resale value down road so consider investing in high quality covers made specifically for electric vehicles. 

Electric golf carts are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transportation in Southwest Florida and many other places. Whether you're looking for a gas or electric model, remember to check out all your available options and consider your accessories, maintenance requirements, and safety considerations before buying. Once you've settled on a cart that works for you, be sure to find secure storage for it to ensure its longevity. All in all, electric golf carts offer a convenient and enjoyable way to explore Southwest Florida at your own pace – so get out there and enjoy the ride!  Now that you know more about these amazing tools and what they have to offer, what questions do you have? Let us know in the comments below!