Coatesville Indiana Police

Golf Carts

Did you know that there is a town ordinance regarding the use of golf carts in town? If you didn't, you do now. It is not illegal to use a golf cart in town as long as you are doing it legally. To be considered legal, here are some of the rules within the ordinance:

1) Only a licensed driver cn operate a golf cart.

2) Golf carts must obey all traffic laws.

3) Riders must all be seated, that means no standing on rear deck or anywhere on the cart.

4) If driving after dark, the golf cart must be equipped with lights and proper turn signals.

SAFETY TIPS ON GOLF CARTING

1) Always drive responsibly; arm’s and legs should always remain in the vehicle and, if your cart is equipped with them, seat belts should always be fastened.

2) Only carry passengers that you have seats for. Do not try to squeeze in extra passengers.

3) Never drive recklessly or joy ride. Be courteous to other drivers and obey vehicle traffic laws and the rules of the road.

4) Never drive intoxicated or under the influence of any drug or narcotic.

5) Avoid distractions while operating your golf cart. No matter the size of the vehicle, it’s still an automobile. Remain attentive and avoid talking, texting, or reading while driving, reaching for objects, applying makeup or eating.

6) Never allow anyone to stand in the vehicle or on the platform located in the back of the vehicle and never put the vehicle in motion until all passengers are safely inside the vehicle and buckled in.

7) Always use hand signals to indicate upcoming turns as well as your turn signals. Turn signals may be small or go unnoticed by vehicles behind you so it’s always a good idea to use hand signals as well.

8) Always check blind spots before turning. When making a left hand turn, yield to the through traffic lane and merge into that lane before turning left.

9) Use caution while tuning and look behind your golf cart before backing up.

10) Avoid excessive speeds, sudden starts and stops, and avoid sharp turns at fast speeds.

11) Reduce speed depending on the driving conditions and driving environment. Reduce speed on hills and inclines or declines, blind corners, and yield to pedestrians.

12) Do not leave keys in golf cart while unattended and always make sure to set the parking brake.

13) Always yield to pedestrians.

14) Use extreme caution in inclement weather. Golf carts may be prone to lightning strikes. Avoid driving in inclement weather if you can.

15) The operator of a golf cart should be a licensed driver.