Two Florida Golf Cart Accidents Highlight Different Hazards

Golf carts pose various hazards to Florida residents, and some of these hazards are more subtle than others. Most people know that like road vehicles, golf carts are capable of crashing. But these low-speed vehicles also become more dangerous under certain circumstances. In recent years, Florida has seen numerous golf cart accidents sparked by teen drivers – and this has prompted the passing of new laws. Golf carts also pose a fire risk when charging. Two recent golf cart accidents in Florida highlight these hazards.

Teen Driver Allegedly Causes Golf Cart Accident in Panama City 

In August of 2024, media sources reported that a teen had crashed his golf cart on U.S. 98 near Panama City. The driver had three passengers in the vehicle, and all four were injured when they were struck by a car. Police say that the teen attempted an “abrupt left turn” which took the golf cart into the path of the following car. Although the driver attempted to dodge the golf cart, a collision occurred.

Fortunately, all four injured individuals suffered minor injuries. That being said, these injuries still reportedly required hospitalization. Police also noted that the golf cart may not have had its headlights activated, although there seem to be conflicting statements from eyewitnesses in this regard.

Florida has continuously struggled with teens driving – and crashing – golf carts. This issue eventually prompted Governor DeSantis to pass new, more restrictive laws – but the accidents continue to occur. Sometimes, teens take their parents’ golf carts without permission for “joy rides” – sometimes while intoxicated. In other situations, teens drive golf carts with parental permission – but without proper supervision.

Golf Cart Catches Fire While Charging in St. Petersburg 

Also in August of 2024, a golf cart caught fire while charging in St. Petersburg. Firefighters were able to extinguish the flames, but the vehicle was “fully engulfed” when they arrived at the scene. Fortunately, the fire did not spread to the rest of the house, and this golf cart was left charging in the driveway. If the residents had charged their cart inside a garage instead, the consequences likely would have been much worse.

While the fire is still officially under investigation, most readers already know what caused the inferno. Lithium-ion batteries are the number-one cause of fires in some areas of Florida, and these defective products are clearly not safe. Residents have been urged to charge all electric vehicles outside of their homes for because of the danger of fires from Lithium-Ion batteries.

Golf cart fires can cause catastrophic or fatal injuries. Victims have suffered serious burns, and some have lost their lives due to smoke inhalation.

Find an Experienced Golf Cart Accident Lawyer in Florida 

www.GolfCartAttorney.com (The Law Office of Frank D. Butler) has spent years focusing on helping people injured by Florida golf cart crashes. We know that these vehicles pose numerous hazards to residents, including both collisions and fires. Regardless of how you were injured by a golf cart, it makes sense to discuss your legal options with a lawyer that focuses on golfcart injury cases. You may be eligible for compensation. Reach out today to discuss your next steps in more detail.

Sources: 

wjhg.com/2024/08/07/four-kids-survive-lsv-crash-highway-98/

patch.com/florida/stpete/electric-golf-cart-catches-fire-while-charging-st-pete-home-spfr