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Golf carts, ATVs can be more dangerous than you think

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Golf cart on park trail

In sprawling South Florida communities, it's not uncommon to see tweens and teens zipping around in golf carts. It's a quick, easy way to get around; it's fuel-efficient; and it relieves parents of some driving duties.

But golf carts and similar vehicles can pose particular risk to kids.

More than 13,000 people a year suffer golf cart-related injuries, according to the U.S. Consumer Safety Protection Commission. An estimated 40 percent of those are children younger than 16.

In Florida, golf carts can't be operated on state roads, but cities and counties can choose to allow them on designated streets. No one younger than 14 is allowed to drive a golf cart under state law. It's generally recommended that children younger than 6 should not be allowed on a cart, and drivers shouldn't go faster than 15 mph.

When it comes to ATVs, an estimated 29,000 children younger than 16 are rushed to emergency rooms nationwide every year with injuries related to the vehicles.

TIPS FROM ATV SAFETY INSTITUTE:

  • All riders younger than 16 must wear helmets and be supervised.
  • Ride an ATV that’s a right fit. Never allow a passenger on a single-rider ATV.
  • Ride on designated trails at safe speeds. Never ride on roads unless to cross them.
  • Wear a helmet, goggles, gloves, long sleeves and long pants.
  • Never drink and drive.
SOURCES:

• Safe Kids Worldwide
• U.S. Consumer Safety Protection Commission
• ATV Safety Institute

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    Safe Kids Palm Beach County

    Local child safety information and assistance, including car seat installation, helmet fitting, poisoning prevention, TV tip-over prevention and more

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    Non-governmental, nonprofit organization offering local safety programs, services and education materials to reduce health hazards and prevent injury for both personal and economic loss, including information for teen drivers and child safety

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