Golf Carts and Kids – A Lawsuit Waiting to Happen?

Kids driving golf carts are a common sight on golf courses. Many parents and kids are not aware of the legal implications that come with this type of driving, not to mention the fact that it’s illegal for non-licensed drivers to operate a golf cart.

Some excuses I’ve heard for allowing kids to drive a golf cart:

1. It’s good practice for driving a car.
2. It’s just fun!
3. Golf carts don’t weigh much.
4. Golf carts don’t travel very fast.
5. They are driving on a cart path, not a street.

What would happen if your child was driving with a few friends as passengers and someone really gets hurt? Who would pay for the doctor and hospital bills? If there is a liability lawsuit, who is going to pay for those damages? Most families don’t have thousands and thousands of dollars sitting around to pay a judgement. I know I sure don’t!

What are some insurance coverages that you can purchase to help protect yourself?

1. Liability Protection

Golf cart liability insurance provides coverage for any injury or accident that may occur while using a golf cart. Liability insurance is often required by the club or course and it is important to purchase this insurance before using a golf cart.

Injuries and accidents happen all the time, so it is important to be prepared when they do happen. Liability insurance can help cover costs like medical bills, lost wages, punitive damages, and pain and suffering if someone gets hurt while driving your golf cart. Ask your agent about adding an endorsement for the cart, and transfer that risk from your personal pocketbook to your insurance company.

2. Theft Protection

What will happen if your golf cart is stolen? Would you have the funds available to replace it? If you have comprehensive coverage on your golf cart, you would able to file a claim to receive compensation if it is stolen.

3. Property Protection

If you include collision coverage, the insurance company helps pay for repairs to your own golf cart if you are in an accident. This coverage is very helpful for the more expensive golf carts out on the course.

The best way to prevent an accident with your non-driving age kids and your golf cart is to make sure they don’t drive the golf cart. Remove the keys and put them in a safe place that is inaccessible.

Golf carts can be fun, but the damage and injury that can be caused by inexperienced drivers is no laughing matter.

www.castleinsuranceky.com