Safety measures are always the priority in sports. And when it comes to golf, golf carts have been hazardous lately. Earlier this year, there was a proposal for increasing the minimum age to drive a golf cart. The proposal was filed in February. And according to the reports, the conclusion of the proposal is near. Fresh developments have come forward in the case.
The bill that strives to bring big changes
Soon there might come a time when fourteen-year-olds won’t be allowed to drive golf carts in the state. Although, according to Key Biscayne’s rules, a golf cart driver must have a driver’s license and a Village permit. In February, Cyndi Stevenson, a St. Johns’ representative, proposed a house bill in Florida. It proposed increasing the minimum age requirement for golf cart drivers from 14 to 16. She believes that drivers should have a valid license; if not, they should at least have a permit.
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According to her, a person aged 21 or above should be in the passenger seat with the driver who has the permit to drive the golf cart. Stevenson says that the violation of the law would be a non-criminal traffic infraction. And according to Islandernews, the proposal is under consideration. If the bill is adopted, it will come into force exclusively from July 1, 2023. And if it is not followed, the person will be prosecuted for a non-criminal traffic infraction.
Stevenson talked to First Coast News and revealed that her proposal concerns safety regulations. While proposing the bill in February, a St. Johns’ representative also chimed in and supported Stevenson. “We are seeing more people in the ER with serious avoidable injuries. This bill is a common sense way to reduce pain, suffering, trips to the ER, and even loss of life.” Not to mention, the fine for any violation of the Village Ordinance is $75, but only for the first offense. If it is a second offense, a fine of $175 must be paid.
What are the current rules for driving a golf cart?
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According to Section 320.01(22), Florida Statutes, a golf cart is “a motor vehicle that is designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes, and that is not capable of exceeding speeds of 20 miles per hour.” And according to the same Florida Statutes rules, golf cart drivers do not require to have a driver’s license as a compulsion. But that is only if the driver doesn’t hit the road.
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According to current law, if a golf cart driver is driving on designated public roads, they must be 14 years or above. However, the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Agency claim that the definitions and distinctions between a golf cart and a low-speed vehicle (LSV) are murky. But if the bill is passed, Tiger Woods and other natives of Florida will need a license.
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Do you think the minimum age to drive a golf cart should be increased? Please let us know your views in the comments below.