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What Is the Difference Between a Golf Cart and an LSV?
Arizona residents are probably familiar with golf carts and low-speed vehicles, as more and more people use these vehicles to navigate Arizona roadways. Golf carts and LSVs are common in warm, dry climates because of the reduced cost of ownership. However, owners should be aware of legal restrictions regarding golf carts and LSVs to avoid unnecessary lawsuits and to be safe on Arizona roadways.
If you have been injured in a golf cart or need more information about your rights as a golf cart owner, please get in touch with our knowledgeable, caring legal team. We will listen carefully to your concerns and offer legal counsel that meets your needs. Call our team of personal injury lawyers today to schedule a free consultation at 602-584-8957.
Golf Carts
Golf carts and LSVs are similar, but it is important to recognize the distinction between these two types of vehicles. While golf carts are usually not as well-equipped as LSVs, many people opt for this form of transportation because they are generally less expensive.
For example, golf carts travel more slowly and may lack safety features like seat belts or mirrors. These vehicles weigh less than 1,800 pounds, have three or more wheels, and generally carry four passengers at one time.
Low-Speed Vehicles
Low-speed vehicles, or LSVs, may be more expensive but usually include turn signals, headlights, seatbelts, and mirrors. These vehicles also travel more quickly at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour, while golf carts are limited to around 20 mph.
What Are Arizona Laws Regarding Golf Carts?
With the increasing prevalence of golf carts on Arizona roads, the state has recognized the need to regulate golf cart use for the safety of citizens and visitors on roadways. Golf cart use is generally permitted, especially on residential roads and private property. However, these vehicles must be registered and operated according to Arizona law.
Street Use
Golf carts and LSVs are street-legal in Arizona under certain conditions. These include:
- A driver operating a golf cart on public roads must have a driver’s license
- The vehicle must be registered with proper license plates
- The operator may not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Additionally, Arizona statute 28-721 permits vehicles “proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic,” as long as the driver keeps the vehicle as close as possible to the right-hand curb or shoulder.
License and Registration
One essential legal requirement for driving a golf cart is that the operator must have a valid driver’s license. While this is not required on private property, the driver must be licensed for the golf cart to be considered street-legal.
In Arizona, a golf cart must also be registered with the DMV. Please check with your local office to be sure you have the proper documentation to register your golf cart or LSV.
Reckless Behavior
Finally, even licensed and registered drivers can find themselves in legal trouble if they behave recklessly while driving. This may include driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol or ignoring traffic signals. If you need more information about your legal rights and responsibilities while using a golf cart, contact our legal team for counsel regarding your unique circumstances.
What Should I Do if I’m Involved in an Accident with a Golf Cart?
With more widespread use of golf carts, it becomes increasingly likely that a driver will experience an accident with a golf cart or LSV. If you are in a crash, please first get yourself and other victims to safety. You should alert the authorities and seek immediate medical attention.
Once you and other victims are safe and the police have been notified, you should protect yourself from legal and financial repercussions by hiring an attorney and seeking compensation to make a full financial recovery.
Consult with an Experienced Attorney
Hiring an attorney is an important part of protecting your rights following an accident. Even drivers who seem friendly following a crash can become bitter enemies in court. It is essential to have an experienced lawyer backing you up so you don’t end up paying more than your fair share.
Your attorney can help gather evidence, including police reports, medical records, eyewitness accounts, and other items that show what really happened during the accident. If the other party is responsible for the crash, your lawyer may be able to help you recover compensation.
Seek Compensation
A skilled legal team like those at Desert Star Legal Group can help determine how much compensation you should seek following an accident involving a golf cart. Some items that could be covered in a successful lawsuit include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Past and future pain and suffering
- Lost income and wages
- Emotional distress
Can Our Arizona Personal Injury Attorneys Help You?
Driving a golf cart in Arizona can be a great way to save money and enjoy the warm climate while getting where you need to be. However, you should understand your legal responsibilities and rights when driving a golf cart or LSV. For more information about how Arizona laws affect you as a golf cart owner or someone involved in a golf cart accident, contact our legal team right away.
We have the experience, knowledge, and dedication to give you the answers you need. We will stand by your side as we gather evidence that shows you deserve full compensation if you have been injured in an accident involving a golf cart or LSV. Call 602-584-8957 now to schedule a free consultation with our caring, capable legal team.
