Golf Cart Accident Lawyers in Columbus, Ohio

Golf carts have become increasingly popular for transportation in residential communities, retirement villages, and recreational areas throughout Columbus and central Ohio.

While these vehicles may seem harmless, golf cart accidents can result in serious injuries due to:

• Their open design
• Their lack of safety features
• The fact that they share roads with much larger vehicles
• The lack of experience and age of some drivers 

GB Law, a personal injury law firm in Columbus, Ohio, is here to advocate for your rights and get compensation for your pain and suffering. 

Our experienced Columbus golf cart accident lawyers will evaluate your case for free. Contact us now for a free consultation of your personal injury case.

What are the Common Types of Golf Cart Accidents in Columbus, Ohio?

The most frequent golf cart accidents in Columbus happen when:

• A motorist fails to see a golf cart and collides with it at intersections or driveways
• Inexperienced operators attempt to navigate challenging terrain
• Golf carts tip over on hills, uneven terrain, or during sharp turns
• Passengers fall out of golf carts because of sudden stops or turns
• Golf carts are struck from behind by vehicles on shared roadways
• Mechanical failures cause loss of control, including brake failure or steering problems
• Golf carts collide with stationary objects like trees, buildings, or parked cars
• Multiple golf carts collide with each other in crowded areas

Golf cart accidents can also occur because of poor maintenance of pathways and/or inadequate lighting in residential areas.

Unlike traditional vehicles, golf carts lack many basic safety features like:

• Seat belts
• Airbags
• Protective enclosures

These missing features increase the risk of injury.

Why Should You Call GB Law About Your Golf Cart Accident Case?

The lawyers at GB Law have successfully represented injury victims for decades throughout Ohio. We understand that these incidents often occur in residential communities where neighbors know each other, making the legal process particularly challenging.

We know the unique laws governing golf cart operation in Columbus and surrounding communities. These cases can involve:

• Homeowners associations (HOAs)
• Golf course operators
• Vehicle manufacturers
• Other motorists who fail to exercise proper care around golf carts

We have a proven track record of securing fair compensation for injuries that occur on both private and public property.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a golf cart accident in Columbus, Ohio, please call the personal injury attorneys at GB Law at 614-222-4444 or contact us through our web form for a free case evaluation.

Golf Cart Laws in Ohio

Under Ohio law, golf carts are classified as under-speed vehicles, or “a three- or four-wheeled vehicle…with an attainable speed on a paved level surface of not more than twenty miles per hour and with a gross vehicle weight rating less than three thousand pounds” (Ohio Revised Code Section 4501.01).

As an under-speed vehicle, golf carts can’t be operated on streets or highways with speed limits over 35 mph (ORC Section 4511.214). 

However, many golf cart accidents happen on private property where different rules may apply, including golf courses, residential communities, and private pathways.

Local municipalities like the city of Columbus may have additional regulations governing where golf carts can be operated. Some residential communities have specific rules about golf cart use on their private roads and common areas.

How Many Golf Cart Accidents Happen Each Year in Ohio?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) report that golf cart-related injuries have increased significantly in recent years as their use has expanded beyond golf courses. According to data:

• An estimated 124,170 golf cart–related injuries were treated during 2020–2024 (NEISS)
• 50.1% of those treated for golf cart–related injuries were children under the age of 18 (NEISS)
• From 2019–2023, 203 occupants were involved in a fatal crash involving golf carts, and 109 occupants were killed (NHTSA)

These statistics highlight the importance of proper safety measures and careful operation, especially when children are passengers.

Staying Safe and Reducing Golf Cart Accidents

If you operate a golf cart in Columbus or central Ohio, we recommend these safety measures:

• Follow All Traffic Laws: When operating on public roads, golf carts must follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles, including stopping at stop signs and yielding right-of-way.
• Never Exceed Passenger Capacity: Golf carts should never carry more passengers than they’re designed for. Overcrowding increases the risk of passengers falling out during turns or sudden stops.
• Avoid Hills and Uneven Terrain: Golf carts can easily tip over on steep inclines or rough terrain. Exercise extreme caution when navigating hills or uneven surfaces.
• Ensure Proper Maintenance: Regular maintenance of brakes, steering, and other critical components is essential for safe operation. Address any mechanical issues immediately.
• Use Proper Lighting: When operating at dusk or dawn, ensure all lights are working properly to remain visible to other vehicles and pedestrians.

Who is at Fault in Golf Cart Accident Cases?

Determining fault in golf cart accidents can be complex and depends on various factors, including:

• Where the accident occurred
• Who was operating the vehicle
• Whether proper safety protocols were followed

Potentially responsible parties may include:

• Other vehicle operators who failed to see or yield to golf carts
• Golf cart operators who violated traffic laws or operated negligently
• Property owners who failed to maintain safe pathways
• Golf cart manufacturers if mechanical defects contributed to the accident
• Employers if the accident occurred during work-related activities

Like any motor vehicle accident, preserving evidence and conducting a thorough investigation is crucial. Don’t assume fault or accept blame at the scene of an accident.

What Should I Do After a Golf Cart Accident?

Following a golf cart accident, contact an Ohio personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. The personal injury lawyers at GB Law have been representing Ohio residents for more than 35 years and understand how stressful these accidents can be.

While you focus on your physical, mental, and emotional recovery, we will review the full accident report, conduct an independent investigation, and consult experts to determine who was responsible.

We will identify all potentially liable parties and explore your options for pursuing compensation for:

• Medical bills (emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage to the golf cart or personal belongings

Insurance coverage for golf cart accidents may include:

• Auto insurance policies
• Homeowners insurance
• Commercial liability insurance
• Specialized recreational vehicle coverage

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer at GB Law for a Free Consultation

To schedule a review of your potential injury case with the attorneys at GB Law, call 614-222-4444 or request a consultation through our website.

We can meet you at our office, your home, or the hospital. It is always free to discuss your case with one of our attorneys. The lawyers at GB Law work on a contingency fee basis, which means we won’t take a penny unless you accept a settlement or win a verdict.

Columbus Golf Cart Accident FAQs

What Does it Cost to Hire a Columbus Golf Cart Accident Attorney?

The lawyers at GB Law work on a contingency fee basis, which means we won’t take a penny unless you accept a settlement or win a verdict. There are no upfront costs or hourly fees to worry about.

What if My Golf Cart Accident Happened on Private Property?

Golf cart accidents on private property can still result in valid personal injury claims. Property owners, golf courses, and residential communities have a duty to maintain safe conditions. 

Contact us for a free evaluation of your case.

What if I Was Operating the Golf Cart When the Accident Occurred?

Even if you were driving the golf cart, you may still be entitled to compensation if another party’s negligence contributed to the accident. It’s important to contact a Columbus golf cart accident lawyer immediately to understand your rights.

Can I Still Pursue a Claim If No Other Vehicles Were Involved?

Yes, golf cart accidents involving mechanical failures, poor property maintenance, or defective equipment may still result in valid claims against manufacturers, property owners, or maintenance companies.

What If My Child Is Injured in a Golf Cart Accident?

Children are particularly vulnerable to golf cart injuries. Special rules apply to cases involving minors, and these claims require immediate attention to protect your child’s rights and future interests.

Contact GB Law today at 614-222-4444 for your free consultation. Don’t wait—protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.