Golf Carts on Roadways in Texas: What’s the Law?

Golf carts are not just for the golf course anymore. They have evolved into versatile vehicles that are increasingly used in residential communities, campuses, and event venues. Their compact size and electric power make them an eco-friendly alternative for short-distance travel, allowing users to navigate through tight spaces and reduce their carbon footprint. And increasingly, families are using these vehicles to take them places or just go for a drive through their neighborhood or participate in a holiday parade.

As their popularity increases, so does the risk of a serious accident. If you find yourself involved in an accident while driving a golf cart in Texas, it’s important to understand the relevant laws.  If you are involved in a collision, you must follow the same procedures required for a standard vehicle accident, including exchanging information with the other party and reporting the incident to law enforcement if there are injuries or significant damage.

In Texas, the law governing golf carts is outlined in the Texas Transportation Code 551, Sub-chapter F. Golf carts are classified as motor vehicles when operated on public roadways, which means they must adhere to specific regulations. They may only be driven on streets with speed limits of 35 mph or lower and must comply with any local ordinances that might restrict or allow their use. Further, laws for driving golf carts on road vary by state, so be sure to check your state’s laws.

Additionally, golf carts operating on public roads must be equipped with certain safety features and it is essential for operators to possess a valid driver’s license and for the golf cart to be registered with the local authorities in areas where it is required. Understanding these regulations can help ensure safe and lawful operation of golf carts in Texas.

Texas Law on Golf Carts on the Road

1. Classification: Golf carts are considered unique motor vehicles when operated on public roadways.
2. Speed Limit Restrictions: Golf carts may only be driven on streets with a speed limit of 35 mph or less.
3. Local Ordinances: Operators must comply with any local regulations that might restrict or allow golf cart use on public roads.
4. Safety Equipment Requirements: Golf carts must be equipped with headlights, taillights, reflectors, parking breaks and mirrors.
5. Driver’s License Requirement: Operators must possess a valid driver’s license to drive a golf cart on public roadways. The penalty in Texas for driving without a license is the same whether you’re driving a golf cart or any other motor vehicle.
6. Registration: Golf carts must be registered with local authorities in areas where registration is required.
7. Consulting a Texas Golf Cart Accident Lawyer: Depending on the circumstances of the accident, it may be beneficial to contact a legal professional familiar with Texas law for guidance and assistance.

Where Can You Drive a Golf Cart on the Road in Texas?

Golf carts displaying a golf cart license plate can be driven on roads under the following conditions (Texas Transp. Code Sec. 551.403):

• Master Planned Communities: Allowed in communities with uniform covenants and an approved plat by a county or municipality.
• Beaches: Permitted on public or private beaches open to vehicular traffic.
• Highways: Can be driven on highways with speed limits of 35 mph, only during daytime and within two miles of their regular parking spot for golf course access.
• Intersections: Allowed to cross intersections, including those with highways where the speed limit exceeds 35 mph.

What Equipment is Required for Golf Carts to Operate on a Roadway in Texas?

To ensure safety and compliance with state regulations, golf carts operating on public roadways in Texas must be equipped with these specific safety features (Texas Transp. Code Sec. 551.4041):

• Mirrors
• Headlamps
• Tail lamps
• Reflectors
• Parking brake

In addition, cities or specific counties may permit golf carts on roads within city boundaries or unincorporated county areas. These routes must have a speed limit of 35 mph or less. A golf cart license plate must be displayed when operating on such authorized roads.

Steps to Take if Injured While Driving your Golf Cart

If you find yourself involved in a golf cart accident with another vehicle, follow these steps to ensure safety and proper handling of the situation.

1. Stay Calm: Take a deep breath and assess the situation to avoid panicking.
2. Check for Injuries: Ensure that you and any passengers are unharmed. If anyone is injured, call for medical assistance immediately.
3. Move to Safety:  If possible, move the golf cart to a safe location to prevent further accidents. Turn off the cart’s engine.
4. Call for Help:  Contact the local authorities to report the accident, even if it’s minor.
5. Exchange Information: Collect relevant details from the other party involved, including names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle descriptions.
6. Document the Scene:  Take photographs of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, any damages, and surrounding area conditions.
7. Notify Your Insurance: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible to start the claims process.
8. Follow Up on Injuries:  If you or anyone else begins to feel unwell after the incident, seek medical attention, as some injuries might not be immediately apparent.
9. Seek Legal Advice:  If necessary, consult a lawyer to understand your rights and responsibilities in the situation.
10. Take Preventative Measures: To avoid future accidents, be cautious when driving a golf cart and follow all rules and regulations.

It is important to always prioritize safety in any accident, regardless of how minor it may seem. This applies even more so when operating a vehicle like a golf cart, which typically does not have as many safety features as a regular car.

Remember to remain respectful and cooperative with the other party involved in the accident. Avoid getting into arguments or placing blame. In some cases, the property owner where the accident occurred may also be liable.

We May Be Able to Help if You Were Injured in a Golf Cart Accident!

The laws related to driving golf carts on public roadways vary by state. We can also help you understand them if you are outside of Texas and injured by a golf cart, or while on a golf cart.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence, such as a golf car accident on a public roadway, it’s crucial to know that you have rights and options available to you. Our experienced Texas personal injury lawyers are dedicated to guiding you through the complexities of the legal process, ensuring you fully understand your situation and the potential avenues for compensation.

We take a personalized approach to each case, paying close attention to the unique circumstances surrounding your injury. Call us today for a FREE CONSULTATION, where we can discuss the details of your case and answer any questions you might have. Remember, there’s never a fee unless we win your case, so don’t hesitate to reach out for the support you deserve.