Golf Cart Safety: Simple Tips for a Safer Round

Driving a golf cart feels easy, but a few quick habits can keep you, your teammates, and the cart itself out of trouble. Below are the must‑know steps that any golfer can follow before they even hit the first tee.

Essential Safety Practices

Seat belt on, always. Most carts have a belt – treat it like a car’s. Buckle up when the cart moves, even on flat ground. It stops you from being tossed forward if you hit a bump or need to brake suddenly.

Watch your speed. The average cart is designed for 5‑8 mph. Going faster doesn’t get you to the green any quicker; it just raises the risk of tipping or colliding with other carts. Keep an eye on the speedometer and stay within the course’s posted limits.

Mind the terrain. Grass, sand traps, and wet spots are slicker than they look. Slow down before a bunker, steer clear of steep slopes, and avoid driving on cart paths that are cracked or uneven.

Stay alert for pedestrians. Caddies, walkers, and kids often cross cart lanes. Give them a wide berth, use the horn gently if you need to signal, and always look ahead before turning.

Use the handbrake. When you stop on a hill or at a tee, engage the handbrake. It prevents the cart from rolling back or forward while you step out.

Maintaining Your Cart

Good maintenance cuts down on breakdowns that can cause accidents. Check the tire pressure weekly; low pressure makes the cart wobble and reduces control. Rotate the tires every few months to keep wear even.

Battery health is a big part of safety. If a battery has sat open and dried out, you can refill it, but only with the right electrolyte and proper safety gear. Wear gloves, work in a well‑ventilated area, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. A weak battery can stall mid‑way, leaving you stranded on a busy path.

Keep the lights working. Night rounds or early‑morning play need bright headlights and taillights. Replace bulbs promptly and clean the lenses so the light isn’t dim.

Regularly inspect the brakes and steering. A squeaky brake or loose steering wheel signals that something needs fixing before it becomes a safety issue.

Finally, store the cart in a sheltered spot when not in use. Sun and rain degrade the upholstery and can cause rust on metal parts, both of which can affect the cart’s structural integrity over time.

Follow these simple habits – buckle up, drive at the right speed, watch the ground, stay aware of others, and keep the cart in good shape – and you’ll enjoy a safer, smoother round every time you hop on the cart.