Southern Nevada is home to some of the best golf courses in the world. Additionally, because of no state income tax and good year round weather it has become a retirement haven as well. As a result, there are thousands of golf carts throughout Las Vegas and Henderson. Golf carts can be an enjoyable part of the golf experience as well as a convenient form of transportation in many golf retirement communities. Unfortunately, golf carts can be dangerous circumstances.
In the last two years, golf cart accidents led to an estimated 35,000 trips to the emergency room, according to the Consumer Safety Commission. According to The American Journal of Preventive Medicine, injuries from being hit by or falling off of golf carts surged 132 percent from 1990 to 2006. Nearly 150,000 individuals were injured in a golf car accident between that time period, and in 2006 alone, there were 13,411 golf cart accidents.
Causes Of Golf Cart Accident Injuries
Most often, individuals sustain injuries caused by the person driving their cart. Quick U-turns or rough terrain can cause rollover accidents ejecting the passenger from the vehicle. Many injuries occur when people ride hanging off the back or leave their arms or legs outside the vehicle.
There are no restrictions on golf carts on private property. However, if a city allows a golf cart to be operated on other roads, the golf cart must be insured and have headlamps, tail lamps, reflectors, a parking brake, mirrors and a slow-moving vehicle emblem. Seat belts may also be required. Unless the golf cart is insured as a street legal vehicle, automobile insurance will not cover any accident. Often, golf carts are covered under a driver’s home insurance policy. At other times, you will have to file a negligent entrustment claim against a country club that owns the golf cart.
Have You Been Injured In A Golf Cart Wreck?
If you’ve been hurt in a golf cart accident you need to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our office directly at 702.405.6000 to schedule a free consultation.
Please remember to drive safely, use caution in unfamiliar circumstances, follow the operating instructions and, most importantly, enjoy your time in the sun!
