Golf carts are useful for many reasons other than getting you around the golf course. In fact, thousands of people who don’t play golf own one. They’re great for short ventures around the community. And they’re handy when doing yard work on your property. But, is golf cart insurance something you need to have before taking it out on public roads?
Although golf carts are reasonably safe, accidents can happen. Someone can fall off of the cart and suffer injuries. Also, the risk of crashing into another vehicle or object is possible.
For your own protection, these are some things you should know about golf cart insurance.
Does South Carolina Require Golf Cart Insurance?
If you want to drive a golf cart on public roads, follow this checklist from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety:
- The golf cart must be permitted, registered, and insured.
- The driver must be 16 years-of-age and have a valid driver’s license.
- Use the golf cart during daylight hours only.
- The golf cart must remain within 4 miles of the address listed on the SCDMV permit.
- Drive only on roads with posted speed limits of 35 mph or less.
Display the golf cart permit on the cart and the keep the registration inside the cart at all times. Generally, the golf cart permits cost about $5.
What Does Golf Cart Insurance Cover?
Golf cart insurance will help pay for bodily injuries, property damage, or repairs after a golf cart accident.
Similar to auto insurance, the common coverage types for golf cart insurance include:
Property Damage Liability
Your golf cart insurance will help you compensate someone else if you cause damage to their property
Bodily Injury Liability
This coverage pays medical bills for someone who gets hurt by your golf cart. It also pays some of the legal costs if you are sued because of a golf cart accident.
Collision
Pays some of the cost to repair your golf cart or due to an accident.
Comprehensive
Pays out if someone steals your golf cart or if it is damaged by flood, hail, fire, or falling objects.
Medical Payments
This coverage helps cover medical expenses if you or a passenger are injured in an accident involving your golf cart.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury
This coverage helps pay your medical bills if you are hurt in an accident caused by someone who has no insurance or not enough insurance.
Does My Auto or Homeowners Policy Cover Golf Carts?
Many people mistakenly assume their homeowners insurance will cover their golf cart. However, a standard homeowners policy provides little coverage for these vehicles. Especially, if you drive the golf cart away from your own property. Likewise, automobile insurance policies typically do not cover golf cart accidents.
The good news is, you can get golf cart insurance in several ways. First, talk to your insurance agent to learn about the options they provide. Depending on the insurer, you may be able to get golf cart insurance by adding an endorsement to your existing homeowners or automobile policy.
Aside from that, you may purchase a policy specifically for golf carts. Insurers sell this type of policy as “off-road vehicle insurance.”
Furthermore, some insurance companies offer policies specifically for golf carts. It covers your golf cart regardless of where it goes. Ask your agent if this kind of insurance is available through your provider.
Ways to Save Money on Golf Cart Insurance
Despite the high cost of any insurance these days, you can save money. Here are some suggestions: for lowering your premium:
- Bundle your policies – Most insurance companies offer discounts if you have multiple policies with their company.
- Payment discounts – When you pay your full premium up-front or pay by electronic transfer, you could qualify for discounts.
- Get “safety certified” – You may qualify for a premium discount if you complete a safe driver training course.
The cost of golf cart insurance varies, but overall basic liability coverage averages about $75 per year. However, adding other coverage such as collision, comprehensive, medical payments, and uninsured motorist coverage will increase the cost.
Your age, driving history, state of residence, and the type of golf cart you own factor in as well.
Trust Sandifer Insurance for Golf Cart Insurance and More
Whatever your insurance needs, Sandifer Insurance Agency will find the most reliable, affordable coverage available. We have over 40 years of experience in helping customers protect their valuables. Our full-line insurance includes homeowners, automobile, life, farm, and commercial insurance.
We are located in historic Cheraw, SC, and are proud to serve neighbors in the surrounding areas as well. Our customers can rely on trusted insurance coverage from America’s top providers.
If you have questions about golf cart insurance or any other type of insurance, reach out to Sandifer today. Contact us by phone, email, or online to speak with one of our agents and get a free quote.
Source:
forbes.com/ – Golf Cart Insurance Explained