Golf carts are a common sight in a golf course community, but they are becoming popular for traversing other places. Some people use them to travel across their property or neighborhood. Some towns and cities have golf cart paths. If a golf cart is being used for anything else besides playing golf, it is good to have insurance on it.
Do I legally need insurance?
Golf carts are an alternative form of transportation that is not used as primary transportation. Still, if you live in a neighborhood that is controlled by a Home Owner’s Association, they may require you to have insurance if you use your golf cart to travel on the roads in the neighborhood. Some big golf states, like Arizona and South Carolina require golf cart insurance if the cart is used on any road.
How much does it cost?
Golf cart insurance can vary in price depending on how you use it. Depending on how you use it will also determine if you need a separate policy for the cart. For instance, if you plan only to drive your golf cart on your property or to play golf, a simple endorsement on your homeowner’s insurance will suffice.
If you plan on using it to cruise around your neighborhood at neighborhood speeds up to 25 mph, you will need an auto insurance policy for golf carts or low-speed vehicles. If you plan on driving the cart on major roads outside your neighborhood, a golf cart policy with umbrella insurance could be required.
What does golf cart insurance cover?
Golf cart insurance plans cover similar things that motorcycle insurance covers. Bodily injury and property damage liability is included in basic packages. Similarly to motorcycle packages, guest passenger liability is also included. Optional clauses include medical payments coverage which covers any medical bills accrued by a driver or their passengers during the operation of the golf cart. Uninsured motorist coverage pays for damages to the golf cart are committed by someone who is uninsured. Collision and comprehensive coverage pay for the repair or replacement of the cart in the event it is involved in a vehicle accident or another event.
Shop for Quotes
Golf cart owners who either need or want golf cart insurance should always shop around for quotes, similar to auto insurance. Depending on the level of coverage you need, an insurance representative may need more information about your cart to start a policy. Some insurance companies do not even offer golf cart plans.
Golf carts can be a fun way to get around, but if anything happens to the cart, passengers, or driver, an insurance plan would certainly help curb or eliminate the costs of an accident. It is also wise to avoid fines from your HOA and law enforcement. Treat your golf cart like you would your car or another vehicle. Drive it safely, give it regular maintenance, and make sure you are legally covered to drive it.