Understanding the Differences Between Street-legal Golf Cart Insurance and Standard Auto Insurance

Golf carts can offer a convenient and enjoyable means of short-range transportation. However, while smaller and limited to lower speeds, golf carts are still motor vehicles with inherent risks and exposures. Potential incidents involving a cart could be particularly troublesome for those driving on public roads, furthering the need for adequate insurance. Understanding coverage options and how they may relate to standard auto insurance should be a top priority.

How Coverage Compares Between Golf Cart and Standard Auto Policies

Insurance for golf carts may comprise many of the same terms and coverage features as in a standard auto insurance policy. For example, your insurance may include the following financial protections:

• Bodily injury liability coverage can help pay for financial losses if you’re at fault for harming someone in an accident.

• Property damage liability coverage may assist with other parties’ losses if you’re responsible for damaging their vehicle, building or other property.

• Collision coverage may cover your losses if your golf cart is damaged in a crash.

• Comprehensive coverage can assist with repair or replacement costs caused by noncollision incidents, such as fires, theft and severe weather.

• Medical payments coverage may help pay health care bills if you or your passengers are injured, regardless of fault.

• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can provide financial assistance if someone else is responsible for your losses but lacks the necessary insurance to pay for them.

However, while many features in a street-legal golf cart insurance policy may resemble those available in auto insurance, you should generally expect lower coverage limits. This is due to crashes and other incidents involving these smaller vehicles typically having fewer financial consequences due to their lower speeds and smaller size. As a result, premiums are usually lower as well.

Understanding Coverage Requirements

Most motorists are aware that auto insurance is legally required in most states. However, golf cart owners should understand that laws may also apply to their smaller vehicles. Many states require you to carry insurance if you plan to operate your golf cart on public roads. So if you enjoy cruising around your neighborhood or taking short trips in such vehicles, you should comply with these laws to avoid fines and other penalties.

We’re Here to Help

Contact Southern Insurance AL LLC to learn more about insuring your street-legal golf cart.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.