Golf Carts: Rules in the State of Florida

The Golf cart is a motorized vehicle intended for the use inside a Golf course as well as for personal use. They are also used in many other places like a retirement community. But there are certain rules and regulations that bind the possession and usage of the Golf cart. These rules often impact the usage of it and hence people who purchase the it should be well aware of these rules.

Compulsory Equipment

The mandatory requirements of a Golf cart are stated by the Florida Senate Bill 1820. The foremost requirement of a Golf cart is that it should have a well equipped steering device which enables it to be easily controlled. Requirements are also prescribed for the brakes and tires. They should be efficient and reliable to ensure a safe operation. The rear-view mirror is another essential requirement as it enables the user to get a good view of the goings-on around the it. Finally, a reflecting red tape should be provided on the front and rear bumpers of the it, to make them well visible during the day as well as night.

Restrictions

The Florida Senate 2005 (Senate Bill 1820), imposes restriction on the use of it upon streets and public roads. Also the driver of it should be above 14 years of age.

Exceptions

The Florida Senate Bill 1820 also provides some exception to the use of Golf carts upon streets and public roads. Certain public roads and streets have special lanes or tracks that are meant for the Golf carts. They are allowed to ply on these tracks. It is also allowed to cross a certain portion of the State highway which intersects a municipal street or county road. They are allowed to cross a highway if in case the Golf course is situated on both the sides of the State highway and where a mobile home park is situated. Golf carts are also allowed to access roads which are specifically marked for its purpose.

Residential use of the it is allowed by certain retirement communities. However local rules and regulations may be there to control the operation of the it in its premises.

Hours of Operation

The use of it is limited to daytime as per the Florida Senate Bill 1820. They should be used during the daytime which is between sunrise and sunset. Apart from this the Golf carts should be well outfitted with brake lights, headlamps, indicators and windshield.

Violation of Rules

The Florida Senate Bill 1820 also imposes punishment for those who violate the rules and regulations. It will be considered as a case of noncriminal traffic breach and punishable offense.