It’s relatively common to see golf carts traveling on city streets as well as off-road in Phoenix. Residents use them to run errands, dine out, or travel short distances. According to the City of Phoenix, golf carts can travel on city streets but can only be driven under certain circumstances.
First of all, there must be a Greendot — a permit from the Arizona Department of Transportation — on the cart, the driver must have a valid driver’s license, and the speed limit must not exceed 35 mph.
The City of Phoenix also limits the number of golf carts on city streets. The maximum limit is 2,000 golf carts citywide, of which approximately 650 carts are allowed in each of Phoenix’s seven districts.
The City established the limit of golf carts for safety reasons. Since golf carts are much smaller and have less visibility than cars, it’s better not to have too many on the road at one time. Also, because golf carts typically only reach a maximum speed of 35 mph, they do not interact well with the normal flow of fast-moving traffic. Because of this discrepancy, accidents can — and do — happen.
Common golf cart accidents in Phoenix largely involve golf carts being driven inattentively in busy shopping centers, neighborhoods, or crowded streets. Golf carts used for transportation generally travel slower than cars, and people tend to underestimate the speed these vehicles can reach, trying to keep up with traffic. This can often lead to dangerous results, such as a surprise collision when a car rounds a corner or a pedestrian caught off-guard when an unseen golf cart zooms by.
One of the most common golf cart accidents in Phoenix involves driving carts on streets when they are not intended for street use. Many drivers fail to adhere to the designated speed limits, signals, and signage to ensure other motorists’ safety. Some carts not meant for street use lack headlights, taillights, or turn indicators, making them harder to see and more likely to get struck by an automobile.
Golf carts also tend to tip over during tight turns, especially those with wheelchairs or side-by-sides. This can occur due to unsupported weight or a lack of stability within the cart’s design. Golf courses are not immune from golf cart crashes. With the hustle and bustle of a busy golf course, some carts are driven too fast or erratically, resulting in a sudden collision that can injure those in and around the vehicle.
If you’ve been injured in a golf cart accident on the course or on a city street, contact the Phoenix golf cart accident lawyers at Torgenson Law. We will evaluate your unique situation and help build a solid case.
Figuring out who is liable in a golf cart accident in Phoenix can be tricky. The Arizona state laws on golf cart accidents can vary depending on the circumstances of the accident. Generally, the golf cart’s owner is liable for any harm done to persons or property while operating the vehicle. This includes damages caused by the driver’s negligence or if the operator of the golf cart drove the vehicle recklessly or carelessly.
If the golf cart driver is found negligent, they’re generally held liable for any damage they caused to persons or property. Additionally, the driver is responsible for ensuring all passengers in the golf cart are not put in danger by their actions. Negligent drivers can also face criminal charges if they cause harm to pedestrians or other people due to their negligence or if they committed an offense while operating the golf cart.
A second party, such as a manufacturer, may be liable for a golf cart accident. In such cases, the manufacturer is responsible if the vehicle lacks safety features or was made with faulty parts. The manufacturer can also be held liable for failing to warn consumers of possible dangers and risks associated with the golf cart.
Finally, a vehicle owner that struck a golf cart can be held liable if found negligent. This often depends on the state laws governing liability for golf cart accidents. Since determining liability in a golf cart accident can be complex, call the experienced Phoenix golf cart accident lawyers at Torgenson Law for a free case consultation to ensure the best outcome for the injured parties.
The value of a golf cart accident depends on several factors, such as the severity of the injuries, the amount of negligence assigned to the parties involved, the damage done to property, and other factors. In general, an injured party may be able to receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. As such, a settlement or award from a golf cart accident could range anywhere from a few thousand dollars to millions of dollars.
For instance, a two-person golf cart crash that results in serious injury could be worth tens of thousands of dollars. The injured parties may seek compensation for medical bills, time off work, physical therapy and rehabilitation, and psychological counseling. Additionally, pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life could be factored into the final compensation amount.
On the other hand, the cost of a golf cart accident involving property damage could be more expensive if there are costly repairs. In such cases, the owner of the property or vehicles involved may seek to collect damages from the irresponsible driver or manufacturer. Therefore, the total cost of the golf cart accident depends on how much damage was done and who will ultimately be held responsible.
Golf cart accidents and determining who is at fault can be complex and tricky. It takes an experienced Phoenix golf cart accident lawyer to examine the facts and build a strong case for compensation.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a golf cart accident, contact us for a free case evaluation and learn the steps you need to take to claim compensation for your pain and suffering. Call us today at 602-726-0747 or connect with us online to learn more.