Golf Cart Accidents in South Carolina - Golf Cart Accident Lawyer Near You in Myrtle Beach - New SC Golf Cart Laws - Golf Cart Insurance Requirements

Golf Cart Accidents in South Carolina

Golf carts in Myrtle Beach have transcended their traditional role as golfing equipment and emerged as versatile vehicles extensively utilized for local transportation. These nimble carts have extended their reach beyond the fairways, becoming a favored mode of transport for both residents and visitors around town.

Golf Cart Accident Myrtle Beach

Whether it’s running errands, exploring local attractions, or simply indulging in a leisurely ride, golf carts seamlessly integrate into the daily fabric of life in Myrtle Beach. Moreover, these carts foster a strong sense of community by providing a convenient and eco-friendly means to visit friends and neighbors, enhancing social gatherings, and making them more accessible and enjoyable. With their compact size and maneuverability, golf carts are perfectly suited for navigating the town’s narrow streets and bustling areas, allowing individuals to experience the charm and beauty of Myrtle Beach in a unique and enjoyable way. Ultimately, golf carts have evolved into a versatile and delightful mode of transportation, offering residents and visitors alike a perfect blend of practicality, convenience, and pure enjoyment.

While golf carts in Myrtle Beach are used in versatile ways, much like cars, it’s important to acknowledge that accidents involving golf carts can occur. Although these incidents may not initially appear as tragic as car accidents, they can still have catastrophic consequences. Despite their slower speeds and smaller size, golf cart accidents can lead to serious injuries and significant property damage. The open design of golf carts and the lack of safety features commonly found in cars make occupants more vulnerable in the event of a collision or rollover.

[lwptoc]

If you have been involved in a golf cart accident, it’s important to understand your rights to compensation. Contact The Lovely Law Firm today to learn more about your legal options and seek guidance regarding your potential claim. By recognizing the potential dangers and taking necessary precautions, the community in Myrtle Beach can mitigate the risks associated with golf cart accidents and ensure the well-being of all individuals using these vehicles.

What To Do After Golf Cart Accident In South Carolina?

If you are involved in a golf cart accident in Myrtle Beach, it is crucial to take immediate steps to ensure your well-being and protect your legal rights. Here is what to do after being in a golf cart accident in Myrtle Beach:

  • Golf Cart Accident Lawyer Near MeSeek Medical Attention – First and foremost, prioritize safety for yourself and others involved in the incident. If anyone is injured, call emergency services right away for medical assistance. Even if there are no visible injuries, it is still advisable to seek a medical evaluation as some injuries may not be immediately apparent such as whiplash injuries from the impact.
  • Gather Information & Evidence – Next, gather relevant information and evidence pertaining to the accident. Exchange contact and insurance details with the other parties involved. Capture photographs of the accident scene, including the positioning of the vehicles, any damages sustained, and noteworthy road conditions. If there were witnesses present, obtain their contact information as well. This evidence is crucial for establishing liability and supporting your insurance claim or potential legal case.
  • Report To Local Authorities – Following that, report the accident to the local authorities, such as the Myrtle Beach Police Department, and inform your insurance provider about the incident. Provide accurate and detailed information while speaking with the authorities and your insurance company.
  • Contact A Myrtle Beach Golf Cart Accident Lawyer – Additionally, if you have suffered injuries or significant damages, it is highly recommended to consult with a golf cart accident lawyer near you who specializes in golf cart accidents in Myrtle Beach. They will assist you throughout the legal process, explain your rights, and help you pursue any potential compensation you may be entitled to.

Recent SC Golf Cart Accident Case

Golf Cart Accident Involving a Minor

In a recent case, a 13-year-old boy was severely injured in a golf cart accident. He was a passenger in the golf cart, which was being driven recklessly by another minor. The accident occurred when the golf cart flipped as it was speeding around a roundabout, trapping the child underneath. The injuries included a broken leg that required surgery, a severe foot abrasion, and a head injury. The client was fortunate to survive the accident but faced a long recovery process.

Key Legal Challenges

  • Suing Neighbors: The child’s parents were forced to sue their neighbors, as the golf cart was owned by them. This was a difficult and uncomfortable decision, but legal action was necessary to recover compensation for medical expenses.
  • Insurance Issues: Golf cart insurance policies can be tricky, and not all homeowners policies cover golf cart accidents. In this case, the client’s family had to pursue multiple insurance policies, including the golf cart owner’s policy, their own Underinsured Motorist (UIM) policy, and the homeowners insurance policy. However, homeowners insurance policies typically exclude golf carts, so this posed an additional legal challenge.
  • Medical Liens: The boy’s medical expenses exceeded $1 million, and his family faced complications with liens from health insurance (Tricare). We negotiated with the health insurer to reduce the lien amount significantly, ensuring the family would be able to recover a greater portion of the settlement.

Outcome The case resulted in a $355,000 settlement for the client. Despite the high medical expenses, the recovery was made possible through strategic negotiations with the insurance companies and the health insurer’s lien. This case also highlighted the importance of maximizing UIM coverage to ensure adequate compensation for injuries.

Lessons Learned

  • Always ensure golf carts are properly insured, and consider separate coverage for them.
  • In cases involving minors, be prepared for potential challenges when pursuing compensation from homeowners insurance.
  • Medical lien negotiations can be complex, but with proper legal strategies, we can significantly reduce the amount owed to insurers.

Does Car Insurance Cover Golf Cart Accidents

Understanding the Insurance Coverage for Golf Cart Accidents

When it comes to golf cart accidents, many people assume that their homeowners or auto insurance will cover them. However, golf cart insurance is usually a separate policy, and not all homeowners policies cover golf cart incidents.

In the case mentioned earlier, we were able to access UIM coverage and homeowners insurance, but these claims are not always easy to win. Homeowners insurance policies often have exclusions for golf cart accidents, which requires some creative legal maneuvering to overcome.

Golf carts may seem like a low-risk vehicle, but the reality is they can cause serious injuries, especially when operated irresponsibly. Here are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your family:

  • Ensure Your Golf Cart Is Properly Insured: Don’t assume that your car insurance will cover your golf cart. You need specific coverage for it.
  • Be Aware of the Laws: With the new laws, golf cart owners must be more diligent than ever about meeting insurance and safety requirements.
  • Take Extra Precautions: Children under 12 are now required to wear seat belts in golf carts, and drivers should always be vigilant.

The rise in golf cart accidents and the new laws show how important it is to have the right insurance and follow safety guidelines.

The Importance of UIM and Homeowners Insurance in Golf Cart Accident Cases

Many people don’t realize that even if they’re riding as a passenger in a golf cart or any other vehicle, UIM coverage can be a valuable resource. In the case discussed above, we were able to tap into the UIM policy and homeowner’s insurance to get a recovery for our client.

However, the process wasn’t without its complications. For instance, homeowners insurance policies often exclude coverage for golf carts. But we didn’t let that stop us; we pursued the claim, and with the right legal strategy, we managed to recover significant compensation.

New South Carolina Golf Cart Laws

As of May 2025, South Carolina has implemented new laws for golf carts that require all golf cart owners to have insurance coverage. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most important changes:

  • Insurance Requirement: All golf carts must be insured, with proof of liability insurance required to operate on public streets.
  • Driver’s License Requirement: The driver must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
  • Seat Belt Requirement: Children under 12 must wear a seat belt when riding in a golf cart on public roads.
  • Limitations on Use: Golf carts can’t be driven on roads with a speed limit higher than 35 miles per hour, and they can only be driven during daylight hours.

These changes aim to improve safety and reduce accidents, but they also mean that golf cart owners must be proactive about ensuring they have the right coverage.

Are Golf Carts Street Legal In Myrtle Beach?

In order for golf carts to be considered street-legal in Myrtle Beach, they must fulfill specific requirements. These criteria encompass essential safety features and compliance with proper registration and insurance regulations. Meeting these conditions enables golf carts to obtain the necessary status to navigate the city streets legally.

Registration Is Required

In Myrtle Beach, residents and tourists must ensure their golf carts are registered and permitted before operating them on public roadways. For those new to the area, it is essential to obtain the required licensing, permits, and insurance from the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. Furthermore, it’s crucial to understand that registered golf carts should not be driven on primary highways if the distance exceeds four miles from one’s place of residence. By following these regulations, individuals can ensure compliance, prioritize safety, and enjoy the legal use of golf carts in Myrtle Beach.

Must Be 16 Years Or Older To Operate A Golf Cart

In Myrtle Beach, it is important to note that operating a golf cart on public roads is restricted to individuals who are at least sixteen years old and possess a valid driver’s license. No minors are permitted to drive golf carts, even if they hold a driving permit. It is crucial to adhere to these regulations and be mindful of the rules in place. While it may be tempting for anyone to drive a golf cart, it is essential to prioritize compliance and safety when it comes to operating these vehicles in Myrtle Beach.

No Driving After Dark

In Myrtle Beach and the surrounding cities, it is strictly prohibited to operate a golf cart after dark. As per South Carolina regulations, this restriction applies from half an hour after sunset until half an hour prior to sunrise. It is of utmost importance to respect and comply with these guidelines, refraining from driving golf carts during the designated nighttime hours. By doing so, individuals contribute to the safety of themselves and others while ensuring full compliance with the regulations governing golf cart usage in Myrtle Beach.

Golf Carts Aren’t Allowed Everywhere In Myrtle Beach

In Myrtle Beach, it is important to note that the maximum speed limit for golf carts is 35 MPH. Drivers of golf carts are not permitted to operate their vehicles in areas where the speed limit exceeds this threshold. Additionally, it is strictly prohibited to drive golf carts on walking trails, including paths along the beach, as well as sidewalks in front of hotels or housing communities throughout the Myrtle Beach area. It is crucial to adhere to these regulations to ensure safety and compliance with the guidelines governing the use of golf carts in Myrtle Beach.

Common Injuries After Golf Cart Accidents in Myrtle Beach

Despite the mistaken belief held by many drivers that golf carts are not capable of causing serious injuries due to their lower power and slower speeds compared to cars, several factors contribute to the occurrence of golf cart accidents in Myrtle Beach, resulting in a variety of injuries. The open-air design and limited protection of golf carts increase the likelihood of sustaining injuries in accidents. Common injuries seen in golf cart accidents include:

  • Myrtle Beach Golf Cart Accident LawyerRoad rash
  • Knee injuries
  • Lacerations
  • Gashes
  • Cuts
  • Back and spinal injuries
  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Concussion or traumatic brain injury
  • Shoulder and neck injuries
  • Many more serious injuries

Regardless of the nature of the injury or damage suffered, it is essential for victims to promptly seek medical treatment and contact a skilled attorney specializing in golf cart accidents in Myrtle Beach. Obtaining proper medical care is crucial for evaluating and addressing any injuries, and consulting with a knowledgeable Myrtle Beach golf cart accident lawyer at The Lovely Law Firm can help victims understand their legal rights and pursue appropriate compensation for their losses. Taking swift action in seeking medical and legal assistance after a golf cart accident plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being and protection of individuals affected by such incidents.

Can You Get Whiplash From A Golf Cart Accident?

Whiplash injuries can occur in golf cart accidents, much like any other accidents like motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, or even boating accidents. The sudden and forceful impact can cause the head and neck to jerk back and forth, resulting in whiplash. If a golf cart accident involves a collision with a motor vehicle, the severity of whiplash can be further exacerbated due to the violent nature of the impact. It is essential for individuals involved in golf cart accidents to prioritize their well-being by seeking immediate medical attention. Consulting with healthcare professionals who specialize in treating whiplash and related injuries is crucial for receiving appropriate and timely treatment. By taking prompt action and seeking proper care, individuals can increase their chances of recovering from whiplash injuries sustained in golf cart accidents.

Am I Liable If The Place I Rented From Didn’t Tell Me The Rules In Myrtle Beach?

Every individual who rents a golf cart in Myrtle Beach bears the responsibility of familiarizing themselves with the rules and regulations governing its use, irrespective of whether the rental company provides this information or not. While it is expected that rental companies would furnish customers with the necessary guidelines, it is imperative for renters to take the initiative and educate themselves about the applicable rules. Thankfully, obtaining this crucial information is a relatively simple task. A quick online search, using popular search engines or referring to the official Myrtle Beach website, can yield comprehensive details about the rules and regulations pertaining to golf cart usage in the area. Consequently, the absence of information from the rental place cannot be considered a valid excuse for not being aware of the established guidelines. By assuming personal responsibility and actively acquiring the requisite knowledge, renters can ensure their adherence to the rules and contribute to a safe and enjoyable experience when utilizing golf carts in Myrtle Beach.

Contact A Myrtle Beach Golf Cart Accident Lawyer Near You

If you have been injured in a golf cart accident in Myrtle Beach due to someone else’s recklessness or negligence, call team at The Lovely Law Firm Personal Injury Lawyers at (843) 839-4111 for a free consultation.  It is important to reach out to a knowledgeable Myrtle Beach golf cart accident lawyer for legal assistance in negotiating a fair settlement. Our team specializes in handling many personal injury cases involving golf cart accidents and is well-equipped to provide the guidance and representation you require. With their experience, they can assess the specifics of your situation, gather crucial evidence, and advocate for your rights to pursue fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and other damages. By contacting The Lovely Law Firm, you can access the necessary legal support and significantly improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome in your golf cart accident case. We also have offices in North Charleston, Columbia, Conway, and Florence.

Check Out Our Video On 3 Things You Need To Know Before Driving a Golf Cart

Check Out What Others Are Saying About Our Myrtle Beach Golf Cart Accident Lawyer Near You

Special thank you [Lovely Law Firm] staff for exceeding my expectations. After calling many attorneys that denied to take on my case, The Lovely Law Firm gave it a go. Not only did they call and keep me updated with the entire process, they did it quickly, efficient, and made it an absolute ease for me the entire time. Not only did they do an exceptional job, they surpassed what I even thought was possible by reaching the max level on each of my claims; helping me in so many ways. They really are a God send- and I’m super thankful for all of their hard work! Would highly recommend!!

Amber Rabon on Google

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Be sure to check out our many other reviews! We have a 4.9-star rating across over 743 reviews!

Every case is different. Results vary.