Am I liable if someone is injured in my golf cart?

Yes. As the owner, you can be held liable for injuries caused by your golf cart under the Dangerous Instrumentality Doctrine, even if you were not driving at the time. This applies whether the accident occurs on a golf course, in a community, or on a public road.

What is the difference between a golf cart and a street-legal LSV?

A standard golf cart is limited to 15 mph and is not street legal. A Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) is federally regulated, capable of 20–25 mph, and must have seat belts, mirrors, headlights, turn signals, and a VIN. LSVs can legally operate on roads posted 35 mph or under in most states.

Does my homeowner's insurance cover golf cart accidents?

Typically only while the cart is used on your property. Most homeowner's policies exclude coverage for accidents that occur off your property, on public roads, or in community areas. A dedicated golf cart or LSV policy is strongly recommended.

Can I get a DUI on a golf cart?

Yes. In most U.S. states, including Utah, golf carts are classified as motor vehicles under DUI statutes. Operating a golf cart while impaired — even on a private golf course — can result in a DUI charge, license suspension, and criminal penalties.

What happens if a minor drives my golf cart and causes an accident?

You may face liability under the Negligent Entrustment doctrine. If you knowingly allowed an unlicensed or underage driver to operate your cart and they caused an injury, you can be held financially responsible for all resulting damages.

Is a golf cart street legal in Utah?

Standard golf carts are not street legal in Utah. However, a properly equipped Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) that meets federal safety standards can be registered and legally operated on roads posted 35 mph or under. Local municipalities may have additional restrictions.

Golf Cart Laws in South Carolina: Street-Legal Rules & Liability Guide

Key South Carolina Statutes

SC Code § 56-3-115

Golf Cart Operation on Public Roads

SC Code § 56-5-2910

DUI Applicability

Golf Cart vs. LSV in South Carolina

Requirement	Standard Golf Cart	Street-Legal LSV
Street Legal	Yes (with restrictions)	Yes (35 mph roads)
Registration	Required	Required
Insurance	Required	Required
Driver's License	Required (16+)	Required
DUI Laws Apply	Yes	Yes
Max Speed Road	35 mph	35 mph

Standard Golf Cart Rules in South Carolina

Registration

Yes — registration and a decal required

Insurance

Required — minimum liability insurance

Max Speed

35 mph roads or less; daylight hours only

Permitted Roads

Secondary roads posted 35 mph or less within 4 miles of owner's residence (where local ordinance permits)

Driver's License

Valid driver's license required; minimum age 16

DUI Laws Apply

Yes — same penalties as a standard vehicle DUI

Required Equipment

Headlights and taillights (if operated at dusk or dawn)
Slow-moving vehicle emblem
Rearview mirror
Reflectors

Street-Legal LSV Rules in South Carolina

Registration

Required — title, registration, and insurance mandatory

Max Speed

25 mph; roads posted 35 mph or less

Permitted Roads

Roads posted 35 mph or less statewide

Required Equipment

Headlamps and tail lamps
Turn signals
Stop lamps
Reflectors
Parking brake
Windshield
Seat belts
VIN
Mirrors

Notable South Carolina Communities

Hilton Head Island

Extensive golf cart community with dedicated cart paths and road access. Local ordinances apply.

Kiawah Island

Golf cart friendly resort community; verify current local rules before operating on public roads.

Myrtle Beach

Popular golf cart destination; local ordinances permit cart use on many secondary roads.

Pawleys Island

Active golf cart community; check local ordinances for specific road access rules.

Key Legal Risk in South Carolina

South Carolina's DUI laws apply to golf cart operators on all public roads. Additionally, the 4-mile radius restriction from the owner's residence is strictly enforced. Operating outside the permitted area or without proper registration can result in fines and liability exposure.

Ready to Go Street Legal in South Carolina?

Intermountain Golf Cars specializes in street-legal LSV conversions and sales serving South Carolina and the Western US. Our team can help you choose the right vehicle and ensure full compliance with South Carolina law.

Shop Street-Legal LSVs Contact Us

Golf Cart Laws in Other States

Utah Nevada Arizona Idaho

Legal Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Golf cart laws change frequently and vary by municipality. Always verify current laws with your local municipality and consult a licensed attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.