Golf cart injuries are becoming more common across South Carolina as more residents and tourists use golf carts for everyday transportation. What many people see as a convenient and fun way to get around can quickly become dangerous when accidents occur.
The golf cart was invented in 1932 “to afford unwell, older, or handicapped golfers the ability to travel the course while simultaneously reducing the burden of carrying equipment and to speed progression of play.” (ScienceDirect.com)
Today, golf carts are everywhere in South Carolina. You can see them not only on golf courses, but also in beach communities, around campgrounds, and even on neighborhood streets. In places like coastal towns and vacation areas, golf carts have become a popular way to get around.
However, this convenience comes with a growing danger. Golf cart injuries are increasing across South Carolina and the United States, raising concerns for families, tourists, and local communities. What many people think of as a harmless vehicle can actually cause serious harm when accidents occur.
At The Law Offices of David L. Hood, our legal team has seen firsthand how devastating these accidents can be. Victims often face painful injuries, expensive medical bills, and long recovery times. Understanding the risks and your legal rights can help protect you and your family.
As their popularity has grown, so has the number of golf cart accidents.
Several factors are contributing to the rise in golf cart injuries:
These factors together have led to a noticeable increase in golf cart injuries across the country.
Recent studies show that golf cart accidents are more common than many people realize.
Here are some important statistics:
The Carolinas have also seen a troubling trend. Reports indicate that golf cart accidents causing injury or death have increased by about 68% in recent years across North and South Carolina.
Just in the last year, there have been three deaths in South Carolina caused by golf cart accidents:
These statistics highlight why safety experts and lawmakers are paying more attention to golf cart injuries.
Many people assume golf carts are safe because they move slowly. Unfortunately, they can still cause severe injuries.
Golf carts have several design features that make accidents more dangerous:
Because of these factors, riders can easily fall or be thrown from the vehicle during a crash. In fact, many serious injuries occur when golf cart passengers are ejected.
Victims of golf cart accidents can suffer serious harm. Some injuries may require surgery, rehabilitation, or long-term care.
Common golf cart injuries include:
Head injuries are especially common when riders are thrown from the cart.
Children are particularly vulnerable because they are smaller and may not be wearing seat belts or protective gear.
Many injuries happen because of negligence or unsafe behavior. Some of the most common causes include:
When negligence plays a role, victims may be entitled to compensation.
South Carolina has specific laws governing golf carts (Section 56-2-90).
Key rules include:
In 2025, lawmakers passed a safety update requiring children under age 12 to wear seat belts in golf carts when operated on the public streets and highways of SC.
These laws aim to reduce injuries, but accidents still happen.
If you or a loved one is injured in a golf cart crash, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights.
Victims of golf cart injuries may be entitled to compensation for:
In cases involving reckless behavior, courts may also award punitive damages.
Attorney David L. Hood and his co-counsel legal team have spent over 30 years helping injured people throughout South Carolina.
Our firm is known for compassionate service and strong legal advocacy. We have received numerous recognitions, including:
These honors reflect our commitment to helping clients recover physically, emotionally, and financially after serious accidents.
To reduce the risk of injury, remember these safety tips:
Taking these precautions can help keep families safe.
If you or someone you love has suffered golf cart injuries due to someone else’s negligence, you do not have to face the aftermath alone.
The Law Offices of David L. Hood can help you navigate the situation professionally. We understand the challenges victims face and are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve.
David L. Hood and his legal co-counsel team represent accident victims and their families throughout South Carolina. After gathering all the necessary information, we will pour our efforts into building your case to get a fair settlement or take it to trial. Having a passion to help, we offer a free initial consultation where we provide candid legal advice on what options you may have. If you choose to work with us, we promise a contingent-fee based case, where you don’t pay unless we get a recovery in your case.
Contact us by phone, text, chat, or email today for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
Are golf carts legal on roads in South Carolina?
Yes, but only under certain conditions. Drivers must have a valid license, the cart must be insured and registered, and it usually must stay within four miles of the registered address.
How common are golf cart injuries?
Golf cart injuries are more common than many people think. More than 23,000 people are injured annually in golf cart incidents in the United States, and emergency room visits have increased significantly in recent years.
Who is liable for a golf cart accident?
Liability depends on the situation. Responsible parties may include:
Are children allowed to drive golf carts in South Carolina?
Generally, no. Drivers must usually be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license.
What should I do if my child is injured in a golf cart accident?
Seek medical care immediately and speak with a personal injury attorney. Children can suffer serious head injuries and may need long-term care.
Do I need a lawyer for a golf cart injury case?
Yes, in most cases. A lawyer can investigate the accident, determine liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation.
