Litigation and Business Representation

Golf carts are great for enjoying a day on the course, but they are also used as a primary mode of transportation in many Florida communities. Unfortunately, the design of these vehicles makes them prone to tipping and many operators don’t always take their role seriously. These and other factors contribute to the growing number of golf cart accidents causing personal injury in Florida.

Florida Statutes define a golf cart as a motor vehicle designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes and that it is not capable of exceeding speeds of 20 miles per hour. There is no driver’s license required to operate a golf cart and anyone 14 years of age and older can get behind the wheel. In addition, Florida law states that anyone operating a golf cart assumes a responsibility that they will do so in a manner consistent with protecting the well-being of other cart drivers and people walking or playing nearby.

Joyriding, distractions and lack of operator experience are common causes of golf cart accidents. These situations are exacerbated by a number of factors including:

• The lack of safety features such as seatbelts;
• Their growing use in non-recreational settings;
• Their lack of stability;
• Their open frame that makes it easy for someone to fall out or be ejected; and
• The fact that golf carts and pedestrians often share a sidewalk.

Even with a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour, golf carts can cause severe physical injuries and significant property damage, and sometimes determining fault can be challenging.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a golf cart accident in Sun City Center, Tampa, Deland or elsewhere or have been sued for allegedly causing one, contact the attorneys of Lieser Skaff immediately. Our  experience in personal injury golf cart cases allows us to evaluate your situation and provide the best representation possible.