Golf Cart Accident Leaves Driver Critically Injured
A recent golf cart accident in West Palm Beach left a 77-year-old man critically injured. According to a report from ABC 25 WPBF News, the accident occurred when the golf cart driver failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of 46th Ave N and Royal Palm Beach Blvd. An SUV, traveling northbound on Royal Palm Beach Blvd, was unable to avoid a collision with the golf cart. The golf cart operator sustained life-threatening injuries, while the SUV driver emerged uninjured.
Golf cart popularity is growing in many South Florida communities, and on the streets and sidewalks of many roads. Many local communities are now passing ordinances permitting their use on local streets. However, operators must adhere to traffic laws. Failure to do so can lead to severe consequences, as seen in this incident.
Florida Law for Golf Cart Drivers
Florida law allows golf carts on roadways with a speed limit of 30 mph or less. They can also cross certain approved county roads or intersecting roadways. Golf carts may also cross roads that intersect a golf course or mobile home park. Golf cart operators must also comply with any additional, and possibly more restrictive, ordinances enacted by city or local governments.
Recent changes to Florida law emphasize the need for responsible operation. Under the new law, golf cart drivers must be at least 15 years old and have a learner’s permit, or 16 years old with a driver’s license. Additionally, anyone aged 18 or older must possess a valid government-issued photo ID to drive a golf cart.
In Florida, drivers of golf carts must obey the same rules as motorists in other vehicles. In this West Palm Beach incident, the SUV had the right of way, requiring the golf cart to stop at the stop sign. If the accident resulted in injury or damage to the SUV driver or vehicle, the golf cart operator would bear liability. Despite facing a much larger vehicle, the golf cart operator failed to yield the right of way.
Contact Schwed, Adams & McGinley
Our team at Schwed, Adams & McGinley, P.A. has more than 200 years combined legal experience representing victims of golf cart accidents, motor vehicle accidents, and other types of personal injury scenarios. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to representing victims in Florida. If you or a loved one has been injured in a golf cart accident, or any other scenario due to someone else’s negligence, the experienced attorneys at Schwed, Adams & McGinley can help. Contact us today at 877-694-6079 or contact@schwedlawfirm.com for a free consultation.