Under California law, a golf cart is considered a motor vehicle, albeit one designed to transport golfers around the many courses and clubs you’ll find throughout the state. While the law also legally defines what a golf cart is and when and where it can be used, it’s ultimately under many of the same safety laws as any other motor vehicle in California.
One of the main questions many people have, especially if they encounter one of these vehicles on the road, is whether or not the driver needs to be licensed. Understanding this area of the law is extremely important, especially if you’re involved in an accident.
How Does California Law Define a Golf Cart?
While a golf cart is designed specifically for the purpose of moving golfers around a course and carrying their equipment, it’s ultimately a motorized vehicle, and as such, is under certain regulations of California law.
Under Section 345 of the California Vehicle Code (CVC), a golf cart is defined as any vehicle that:
- Always has three or more wheels in contact with the ground.
- Weight is under 1,300 pounds.
- Built to transport golf equipment.
- Specifically meant for a driver and a passenger, no more.
- Speed doesn’t go beyond 15 mph.
Similar to regulations that control vehicles, laws concerning golf carts are in place to ensure their proper usage in their designated areas. However, just like with any other situation, safety largely relies on drivers adhering to the law when necessary. One of the most important regulations relating to golf carts in California involves who can use them.
Do You Need a Driver’s License to Drive a Golf Cart in California?
The answer to whether you need a license to drive a golf cart in California is heavily dependent on where you’re driving it. Generally speaking, children should never be allowed to drive a golf cart or any other motor vehicle without proper supervision. That said, if a golf cart is being used for its intended purpose within the property of a golf course or club, there is no license requirement for driving. However, many clubs forbid the driving of a golf cart by children or by impaired adults.
Legally speaking, Section 21115 of the CVC holds that a golf cart can be operated on main roads that have a speed limit of 35 miles per hour or below. Under these conditions, only a licensed driver is allowed to operate the golf cart.
What Happens If You Drive a Golf Cart Without a License in California?
Again, the answer here depends on where you’re using the golf cart. If you’re using the golf cart while on a course, nothing will happen to you if you’re driving without a license. However, if you’re on a main road and driving without a license and you’re seen by authorities, you could be stopped and face punishment. Further, if you take the following actions while driving a cart, you could face punishment by both the golf course and the police:
- Speeding – Driving a golf cart at speeds higher than recommended can lead to loss of control and accidents, especially in crowded areas.
- Reckless driving – Driving the golf cart aggressively, making sharp turns, or engaging in risky behavior can result in collisions or rollovers.
- Intoxication – Driving a golf cart under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and coordination, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Unfortunately, this is a common problem on many golf courses due to the popularity of golfing paired with alcohol.
- Distracted driving – Texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distractions while driving a golf cart can lead to collisions.
- Ignoring right of way – Failing to yield the right of way to pedestrians, other golf carts, or vehicles can cause accidents, especially at intersections.
Common Injuries
Like any other vehicle, a golf cart accident can leave you and your passengers with injuries. While every accident is unique, some of the more common injuries in these accidents include:
- Cuts and bruises
- Broken bones
- Internal organ damage
- Strained muscles
- Neck and back injuries
- Serious head injuries
In the eyes of the law in California, a golf cart is treated like any other vehicle. Therefore, in the event of an accident, it’s crucial to follow standard procedure: gather the driver’s information, document the incident and the resulting damage to both yourself and your vehicle. This documentation is key for possible legal actions. After this, you could think about contacting our experienced California personal injury lawyers for more guidance.
Experienced Legal Support From Maison Law
Going through an accident in California can be a stressful experience that greatly impacts your everyday life. This impact can be especially tough on you and your family, particularly when injuries or property damage are part of the picture.
At Maison Law, we understand the difficulties that come with any accident scenario, and we’re committed to helping you navigate it. Whether you’ve been in an accident with a golf cart or any other vehicle, feel free to contact us today to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation.
