Injuries from golf cart accidents are more common than many people think. A study from the American Journal of Preventative Medicine (AJPM) reports that between 1990 and 2006, around 147,696 injuries required emergency medical treatment due to golf cart crashes.
Though they are smaller and lighter than other motor vehicles, golf carts can still cause significant harm and even death. If another party’s negligence caused you to suffer injuries or lose a loved one in such an accident, legal help is available.
An Orange City golf cart accident lawyer with Bogin, Munns & Munns may be able to build your personal injury case to recover compensation. Call today for your free consultation at (386) 860-5200.
Florida Golf Cart Regulations
Most states, including Florida, do not enforce many regulations regarding the operation of golf carts. For example, the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) does not require an ID for those who get behind the wheel of a golf cart. Even the requirement to be at least 14 years of age may not be regularly enforced on private property.
Florida does limit where drivers are allowed to operate these vehicles, however. According to Florida Statute §316.212, golf carts are not permitted on public roadways or highways, unless the municipality states otherwise.
The lack of additional safety regulations regarding golf carts may cause drivers to have a more relaxed approach when it comes to operating these vehicles. This may result in higher instances of driver negligence and recklessness, leading to accidents.
To consult with an experienced golf cart accident lawyer serving Orange City, call 855-780-9986
Examples of How a Golf Cart Crash Can Occur
As with any motor vehicle, driver negligence often plays a role in golf cart accidents. Despite the general lack of oversight and regulations, golf carts are not necessarily safer to operate than passenger cars. These vehicles still require a certain amount of vigilance and care when operating them in order to ensure everyone’s safety.
As such, driving while distracted or under the influence can still result in significant injury and damage. Speeding and other reckless behaviors can also put golf cart drivers and passengers at risk. The study from AJPM shows that over the 17-year period, 38.3% of non-fatal golf cart accidents involved injuries from falling out of the vehicle.
While this seems to be the most common type of golf cart accident, other possibilities include:
- Being crushed under a golf cart
- Getting run over
- Tipping over the cart due to a sharp turn
Orange City Golf Cart Accident Lawyer Near Me 855-780-9986
Golf Cart Accidents Can Result in Severe Personal Injuries
Golf carts lack many of the safety mechanisms that other motorized vehicles provide. As such, they can cause serious injuries in an accident, even though their speed maxes-out at around 20 miles per hour.
Without a steel frame, doors, seatbelts, and other protective items in place, it is more likely that the driver or passengers may fall out of the vehicle when an accident occurs. Personal injuries that often occur in golf cart accidents include:
- Fractured collarbones, arms, and shoulders
- Bruising, particularly in the areas around the hips
- Concussion
- Soft tissue damage
The most severe golf cart accidents may result in substantial brain injuries, such as hematomas or hemorrhaging. In cases involving victims of higher risk, fatalities can occur also.
Victims Most at Risk in Golf Cart Crashes
Most victims of golf cart accidents will suffer from minor injuries that can heal relatively quickly. However, this is not always the case with certain age groups. Victims who are younger than 19 and those who are 80 and older tend to have a higher risk for serious injury.
Whether you or your loved one falls within one of these higher-risk groups or not, you may be able to receive compensation for the following after being involved in a golf cart crash:
- Medical bills
- Pain medications
- Time missed from work
- Pain and suffering
For help pursuing these damages and more in Florida, you can contact an Orange City golf cart accident lawyer. Our team at Bogin, Munns & Munns is ready to hear about your case today. You can contact us for a free consultation by calling (386) 860-5200.
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Time is Limited to Take Legal Action for Golf Cart Accident Injuries in Florida
Every state places a limit on the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit. For personal injuries in Florida, including those involving golf carts, this statute of limitations extends two years from the date of the accident. If you hope to hold the negligent party responsible for your injuries, you must do so within this timeframe. Failure to act within this two-year window means you will likely lose your right to pursue compensation.
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Consult with the Office of a Golf Cart Accident Attorney in Orange City to Learn More
When you are recovering from injuries or mourning a loved one after a golf cart crash, the last thing you will likely want to deal with is pursuing compensation from the negligent party. Allow an Orange City golf cart accident lawyer at Bogin, Munns & Munns to review your case for free.
We may be able to put together an insurance claim or lawsuit based on evidence of your personal injuries and losses, and the responsible party’s negligence and liability. Our legal team can also estimate the value of your damages and determine the types of compensation that may be available to you.
Once your case is ready, we can represent you in front of the insurer, the court, and any other parties necessary. We will fight to recover damages on your behalf if you decide to retain our law firm. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation at (386) 860-5200.
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