Who Is Responsible for a Golf Cart Accident in South Carolina?

Golf carts are a common sight in South Carolina, especially in beach communities, retirement neighborhoods, and golf resorts. While they provide an easy way to get around, they also pose serious risks. When a golf cart accident happens, determining liability can be more complicated than a standard car crash.

At Twenge + Twombley Law Firm, our South Carolina personal injury attorneys help golf cart accident victims understand their rights and hold negligent parties accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured in a golf cart accident in Beaufort, Bluffton, or Hilton Head, here’s what you need to know about fault and your potential legal options in South Carolina.

Common Causes of Golf Cart Accidents

Golf cart crashes can happen for various reasons, often due to negligence. Some of the most common causes include:

Driver Inexperience – Many golf cart operators have little or no formal training.
Speeding and Reckless Driving – Golf carts aren’t built for high speeds, but some drivers take risks that result in accidents.
Distracted Driving – Texting, talking, or adjusting dashboard controls can take a driver’s attention off the road.
Alcohol Use – Drinking while driving a golf cart is illegal and contributes to many crashes.
Overloading – Exceeding passenger limits can make a golf cart unstable and prone to tipping over.
Poor Maintenance – Brake failures, worn tires, or steering malfunctions can cause dangerous accidents.

No matter the cause, determining liability requires a thorough investigation.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Golf Cart Accident?

Several parties may be responsible, depending on the circumstances of the crash:

The Golf Cart Driver – If the operator was reckless, distracted, or impaired, they may be liable.
Another Driver (Car or Truck) – If a vehicle hit the golf cart, the at-fault driver could be held responsible.
The Golf Cart Owner – If the owner allowed an unqualified or reckless driver to operate the cart, they may share liability.
A Property Owner or Business – If hazardous conditions on private property contributed to the crash, the owner may be responsible.
The Golf Cart Manufacturer – If a defect in the golf cart caused or contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held accountable.

Understanding Insurance Coverage for Golf Cart Accidents

Insurance coverage for golf cart accidents can vary depending on the circumstances of the crash and the policies in place. Unlike standard motor vehicles, golf carts are often covered under homeowners insurance, auto insurance, or specialty golf cart policies. Here’s how different types of coverage may come into play:

Homeowners Insurance – Some policies cover golf cart accidents, but only if the crash happened on the owner’s property or within a private community.
Auto Insurance – If a car is involved in the accident, the at-fault driver’s auto policy may cover damages.
Golf Cart Insurance – Many insurers offer policies specifically for golf carts that provide liability, collision, and medical coverage.
Umbrella Policies – If damages exceed policy limits, an umbrella insurance policy may provide additional coverage.

Determining whether insurance will cover medical expenses and property damage requires careful policy review. An experienced personal injury attorney from our law firm can assess the available coverage and identify the best path forward for financial recovery.

South Carolina’s Golf Cart Laws

South Carolina law regulates how and where golf carts can be used to ensure safety:

Golf carts must be registered, permitted, and insured.
Drivers must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
Golf carts can only be operated within four miles of an address listed on the SCDMV permit.
They cannot be operated on roads with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less.
Operation is only allowed during daylight hours only.

Violating these laws can increase liability in a golf cart accident case.

What to Do After a Golf Cart Accident

Taking the right steps after a golf cart crash can protect your health and legal rights:

Call 911 – Report the accident to local authorities.
Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor.
Document the Scene – Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions.
Get Witness Statements – Collect contact information from anyone who saw the accident.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies – Let an attorney handle negotiations on your behalf.

How Twenge + Twombley Can Help With Your Golf Cart Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a golf cart accident in South Carolina, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Property damage
Wrongful death damages if a loved one was killed

At Twenge + Twombley Law Firm, we fight for accident victims in Beaufort, Bluffton, Hilton Head, and other communities throughout the Lowcountry to ensure they get the compensation they deserve.

We investigate the accident to determine liability, negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your settlement, and litigate when necessary to fight for justice in court.

Don’t wait to take legal action. Contact Twenge + Twombley Law Firm today for a free consultation. There are no upfront fees or costs, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. That's because we offer legal representation to accident victims on a contingency fee basis. To learn more, schedule your free case review today.

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