Is Driving Golf Carts on City Streets Dangerous?

The City of Temple Terrace is getting ready to begin registering golf carts Oct. 1.

The City Council approved an ordinance in May allowing golf carts on city streets with enforcement starting Jan. 1, 2013. Prior to the vote, golf carts were only allowed to be driven to and from the .

A story in the Tampa Bay Times questions the safety of the city’s measure, which doesn’t apply to county or state roads. The story cites national data that shows golf cart-related injuries were responsible for nearly 14,000 emergency room visits in 2010.

A Land O’ Lakes woman died after she was thrown from a golf cart in June.

Under Temple Terrace’s new ordinance, golf cart owners will have to annually register their carts with the city in order to drive them on city streets. Registration costs $10 per year.

Drivers have to possess a valid driver’s license and obey all the rules of the road. Golf carts have to meet basic equipment requirements, such as having adequate brakes and steering. Carts are not allowed on sidewalks.

Do you think driving golf carts on city streets is dangerous? Do you think Temple Terrace will see an increase in golf cart-related injuries next year? Tell us in the comments.

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