Florida Golf Cart Accident Lawyer Near You

Injured? Discuss Your Legal Rights with a Florida Golf Cart Accident Attorney for Free

Recent studies have shed light on the hazards posed by golf carts, despite their perceived convenience and enjoyment as a mode of transportation. Disturbing trends revealed in research show a significant increase in golf cart-related injuries among children, adolescents, and individuals of all ages, with an annual average of over 6,500 reported cases in recent years. The Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital emphasizes the substantial risk of injury and potential harm that golf carts present to both drivers and passengers, particularly children and older adults.

Analysis of data collected from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System spanning from 2007 to 2017 demonstrates that approximately 156,040 individuals sought emergency room treatment for golf cart-related injuries. The number and rate of such injuries remained relatively stable over the study period, indicating an ongoing and persistent problem. Children affected by golf cart-related injuries experienced traumatic brain injuries at a rate of 1.6 per 100,000, more than three times higher than the rate for adults and nearly 46% greater than that of older adults. Additionally, older adults experienced a concerning 67.6% increase in injury rates, with an estimated 8.1 injuries per 100,000 in 2017 compared to 4.8 injuries per 100,000 in 2007.

Furthermore, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, adults aged 65 and older sustained an alarming total of approximately 26,300 injuries requiring emergency department treatment between 2016 and 2020, averaging around 5,300 injuries per year. These findings emphasize the urgent need to acknowledge the hazards associated with golf carts and implement appropriate measures to mitigate the risks involved. Whether used on golf courses or elsewhere, the use of golf carts demands caution, attentiveness, and awareness to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals, especially those who are particularly vulnerable, such as children and older adults.

Contrary to the belief that golf carts are incapable of causing serious injuries, the reality is that they can result in a range of injuries in Florida. Various factors contribute to golf cart accidents within the state, underscoring the importance of understanding the prevalent injuries associated with such incidents.

The design of golf carts, characterized by their open-air structure and limited safety features, leaves occupants exposed to harm in the event of an accident. Consequently, golf cart accidents often lead to injuries due to the lack of substantial protection. Among the commonly encountered injuries in Florida’s golf cart accidents are:

• Road rash
• Knee injuries
• Lacerations
• Gashes
• Back and spinal injuries
• Fractures and broken bones
• Concussion or traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Shoulder and neck injuries

Considering the potential severity of these injuries, it is crucial for victims to prioritize immediate medical attention following a golf cart accident. Regardless of the specific injury sustained or the extent of damage, seeking the assistance of a knowledgeable Florida golf cart accident lawyer at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk is strongly advised. Our legal professionals can offer valuable guidance and support throughout the legal process, helping victims pursue rightful compensation for their injuries and losses.

Despite the perception of safety, golf carts can actually present a significant danger. While they are primarily intended for low-speed use on grassy surfaces, it is not uncommon for these limits to be exceeded or for golf carts to be modified to achieve higher speeds. This can lead to rollovers and severe collisions when operating the carts at excessive speeds. Although golf carts are lighter than full-sized automobiles, they still have the potential to trap individuals in the event of a rollover. Golf cart accidents are frequently caused by various factors, including:

Overloaded Golf Cart

Exceeding the weight limit of golf carts can have dire consequences, significantly elevating the risk of accidents and posing a grave danger. While the typical carrying capacity of golf carts ranges from 450 to 800 pounds, surpassing this limit can lead to tipping over and causing accidents. Generally, it is considered safe to have two to three people in a golf cart, as exceeding the weight capacity compromises the cart’s stability. A stark illustration of the perils of overloading occurred in a 2020 incident, where a golf cart carrying underage individuals toppled over in Weston, FL, resulting in severe injuries. The authorities identified the driver as a fourteen-year-old boy and stated that responders rushed him to the Memorial Regional Hospital via airlift. Two passengers identified as a thirteen-year-old and a fourteen-year-old were also injured in the crash when they were ejected from the cart. The driver reportedly was crushed beneath the cart. One of the other victims was also rushed to the hospital under a trauma alert for severe injuries.

Moreover, an overloaded golf cart becomes more difficult to control during braking and acceleration. This lack of control amplifies the potential for serious collisions, further heightening the risk of injuries. If you have sustained injuries in a golf cart accident caused by overloading, it is imperative to seek legal assistance promptly. Reach out to a reputable Florida golf cart accident attorney at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk who can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the rightful compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Driving Under The Influence

Despite the smaller size of golf carts compared to cars, operating them under the influence of alcohol remains a prevalent cause of accidents in Florida. It is imperative to acknowledge the significant risks posed to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians when individuals choose to drive a golf cart while impaired.

In the state of Florida, it is crucial to understand that driving a golf cart under the influence of alcohol or other controlled substances can lead to serious legal consequences. Just like operating a regular motor vehicle while impaired, individuals can face arrest, charges, conviction, and sentencing for a DUI offense.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a golf cart accident caused by someone driving under the influence, seeking professional legal assistance is vital. Contact a reputable Florida golf cart accident lawyer at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk to receive the guidance and support you need throughout the legal process. They will diligently work to help you pursue rightful compensation for the injuries, losses, and damages resulting from the negligent actions of an impaired golf cart driver.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving poses a significant risk not only on the roads but also in golf cart operations. Similar to auto accidents, distractions inside or outside the golf cart, such as texting, eating, or engaging with passengers, can have devastating consequences and increase the likelihood of a golf cart accident.

It is essential to recognize that the smaller size and slower speeds of golf carts do not diminish the dangers associated with using your phone while driving. In fact, distracted driving incidents involving golf carts can be particularly hazardous due to the limited safety features, including the absence of seatbelts.

If you have suffered injuries in a golf cart accident caused by distracted driving, it is crucial to seek immediate legal assistance. Reach out to a reputable Florida golf cart accident attorney at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk. We possess the expertise to provide the necessary guidance and support throughout the legal process, enabling you to pursue rightful compensation for your injuries and losses. Remember, taking prompt action with the help of an experienced attorney is crucial in safeguarding your rights and holding the responsible parties accountable for their negligence.

$100,000/Golf Cart Accident/2022

Our client, a 39-year-old advertising account executive, was out with her husband and some friends on Treasure Island, FL in June of 2021. Everyone was traveling in a road-licensed golf cart headed from one restaurant to another across the street. Our client was sitting in the rear-facing back seat of the cart when the driver made a sudden, hard, and unexpected U-turn throwing our client from her seat and onto the pavement.

Our client was taken to a nearby hospital with injuries to her head, face, and left hand. A laceration around her right eye and another on her hand required stitches. She followed up with an orthopedic surgeon who ended up performing a nerve repair operation on our client’s hand. Additionally, she required extensive dental treatment due to two teeth that were fractured in the accident. Finally, our client’s plastic surgeon stated that she would require facial scar revision surgery in the future.

The defendant had a $100,000.00 bodily injury policy, but his insurance company refused to pay the limit arguing that their insured was not negligent in the operation of the golf cart. Their initial offer was only $34,000.00. We repeatedly pointed out how the defendant’s actions directly led to the serious injuries our client sustained. We also provided detailed evidence of our client’s damages and made it clear that we would never accept less than the full policy limit. Eventually, faced with the likelihood of a lawsuit, the insurance company paid the full amount to settle the claim. Fortunately, our client also had $100,000.00 in uninsured motorist coverage with her own insurer. We argued that her damage clearly exceeded the defendant’s policy limits and submitted a comprehensive demand package to our client’s insurer for their limit as well. In the end, our law firm convinced the company to pay an additional $100,000.00 to our client.

If you have been injured in a golf cart accident in Florida, seeking the assistance of an experienced Florida golf cart accident lawyer at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk Car Accident & Injury Lawyers can be incredibly beneficial. Our lawyers specialize in handling golf cart accident cases and possess extensive knowledge of the unique legal complexities involved. We will provide valuable guidance and support throughout the entire legal process, starting from gathering crucial evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and fighting for fair compensation on behalf of our clients.

By assessing the circumstances of the accident, determining liability, and constructing a robust case, our golf cart accident lawyer will work tirelessly to maximize the chances of a successful outcome. Our primary goal is to protect the rights of our clients, manage all legal formalities, and ensure they receive the just compensation they deserve, covering medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. With the assistance of an experienced golf cart accident lawyer, individuals can navigate the intricate legal procedures with confidence, allowing them to focus on their recovery while their legal rights are effectively represented.