As the cost of gasoline continues to increase, many people are finding golf carts a viable means of in town transportation, where allowed by local traffic laws.  Many states across the United States have passed laws to permit and regulate the use of low speed vehicles, which how golf carts are classified, on public roads.  In general, these laws regulate these vehicles by defining the type of roads they may be used on, the required equipment and the requirements of the driver. 

Typically, the states where golf carts or low speed vehicles are allowed, limit their operation to streets and roads where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less.  In general, these laws will allow a road with a higher posted speed limit to be crossed, as long as the low speed vehicle is only crossing thru an intersection. 

Most laws also dictate the required equipment for the golf cart to be equipped with to legally operate on the street.  Typically equipment includes headlights, stop lamps, turn signal lamps, tail lamps, reflex reflectors, parking brakes, rear view mirrors, windshields, seat belts and vehicle identification numbers. 

Most jurisdictions require that the operator of the low speed vehicle have a valid driver’s license, with the license being in their possession at all times when the vehicle is being operated.  In addition, the low speed vehicle will more than likely need to be registered and insured as well. 

Each state is different, so it is advisable to look the individual requirements of each state and city, prior to committing to a low speed vehicle.  Low speed vehicles are an affordable and viable option for many people who really do not need a car for a majority of their travels.

Posted on behalf of Action Specialty Carts