Panama City Set to Loosen Golf Cart Restrictions: What Could Go Wrong?

Like so many other communities in Florida, Panama City is taking steps to allow more golf carts on the road. For many, this is a welcome change. Florida residents throughout the state are embracing golf carts as a legitimate alternative form of transport, and many want to drive these vehicles on public roads. However, some argue that these changes are occurring too quickly – faster than safety regulations can keep up. Will this lead to more golf cart accidents in Panama City?

Panama City Could Make It Easier to Drive Golf Carts

If a new law passes, Panama City could view golf carts in the same way as “low-speed vehicles.” Although golf carts are similar to low-speed vehicles, there are clear distinctions according to Florida law. By law, golf carts are capable of a top speed of not more than 20 miles per hour. In contrast, a low-speed vehicle is capable of a legal top speed of between 20 and 25 miles per hour. Another major distinction is the fact that low-speed vehicles have more safety requirements – namely seat belts and licenses/registration.

Currently, Panama City does not view golf carts as “street legal.” If this new law passes, golf carts could fall under the same general classification as LSVs. As a result, numerous golf carts could suddenly appear on the roads. It is worth noting that some golf carts may already meet the definition and requirements of low-speed vehicles. Some of these carts are capable of high speeds and some are modified to reach higher velocities, but owners need to know that modifying their LSV or golf cart to exceed the maximum legal speed could negate their liability insurance coverage. Golf carts can also be upgraded with seatbelts and license plates.

Not Everyone Is Enthusiastic About the Prospect of More Golf Carts on the Road 

Not all Panama City residents are enthusiastic about the prospect of more golf carts on their roads. There are numerous concerns associated with golf carts on public roads, including intoxication, underage drivers, and lack of parking.

The issue regarding underage drivers is particularly problematic, and this is something that numerous Florida golfing communities have struggled with.

Around the same time Panama City announced its potential new law, a 21-year-old led police on a drunken chase through The Villages while driving a golf cart. Police reportedly told the drunk driver to stop but he refused and continued to flee.

Find an Experienced Golf Cart Lawyer in Florida 

If you’ve been injured in a Panama City golf cart accident, consider reaching out to www.GolfCartAttorney.com (The Law Offices of Frank D. Butler). We have helped injured plaintiffs throughout the Sunshine State—including the Panhandle–and we have specific experience with golf cart accidents. We will help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses, missed wages, and other damages after a golf cart injury. Call today to get started.

Sources: 

clickorlando.com/news/local/2024/07/25/dude-just-stop-suspected-dui-golf-cart-driver-leads-deputies-on-chase-in-the-villages/

wjhg.com/2024/07/22/new-panama-city-ordinance-could-loosen-golf-cart-restrictions/