subject: The Dos And Donts Of Golf Car Driving [print this page] While golf cars have been used in various Hollywood stunts, misuse of them can inflict serious injury, it is important to always practice safe driving when operating a motor vehicle of any kind. Each golf course has its own rules for acceptable golf cart behavior, it is important to know and abide by those rules each time the cart is rented.
General Safety Etiquette
Safety is a huge part of enjoying a day at the course, and driving a golf cart is no different. Be sure to read and understand the safety features of the golf cart, know how to safely operate one and make sure your passengers understand the safety features and protocols as well.
Steering and Staying Clear of Other Golfers
It is important to pay attention while driving golf cars. Since there are golfers, other carts and even miscellaneous items in the way of your car, you need to make sure to avoid them. Stay a minimum of 30 feet from the green and if you see a sign that says no cars stay away from that area. Remember that muddy, overly grassy and sandy areas are not suitable for golf cars and can severely damage the cars exterior and engine if driven there.
Watch the Grass
Golf courses have some of the best lawn around, but harried driving can be very damaging to the turf. Always be careful when driving on the course, steer clear of sharp turns, hasty brakes, speeding and sliding, all of these maneuvers can damage the lawn and can ruin the green. Not only can the turf be ruined, but causing damage to the property is good reason to get a golfer kick off the course. It is important to also pay close attention to the condition of the tires, if the tires become muddy they can act like glue, sticking to healthy grass and ripping it from the ground. Should you encounter muddy tires, it is best to stay on concrete until they clear.
The 90-Degree Rules
Anytime a cart must drive on to the fairway it must do so at a 90 degree angle. In effort to protect the turf, some courses will allow carts onto the fairway if the driver makes a right angle turn and proceeds forward to the ball maintaining a straight direction.
When the golf cart is driven properly, they can be very useful. Do not speed or behave recklessly while operating golf cars, always follow course rules, and be aware of safety guidelines. As always, respect other drivers and the facility and always return the cart in the same condition you rented it in to maintain a positive relationship with the course staff.
