Golf Cart Driving Etiquette
Driving a golf cart is very different from driving your other commuter vehicles, and there are several things you should be mindful of. There are some aspects of driving a golf cart that are more unspoken formalities that simply become second nature for seasoned drivers. Beginners might not be aware of just how many courtesies are considered common sense when driving these vehicles.
We at Carts Gone Wild want you to be completely knowledgeable about your cart, which includes proper driving etiquette. Read on to learn more and when you want to check out golf carts for sale in Haubstadt, IN, contact our sales department for further assistance. We’re proud to be the chosen golf cart dealer of our friends from Evansville and Indianapolis!
90-Degree Rule
When you’re at the golf course, you might hear someone mention the ‘90-degree rule’. This basically means that you can drive out to your ball on the grass at a 90-degree angle. Keep in mind that you’ll need to follow the cart path to a spot that aligns with your ball, then make a right angle turn and drive straight toward the ball. This rule came about as an attempt to minimize the amount of time a golf cart spends on the grass while still being of use to the golfers trying to reach their ball. Remember that your golf cart should never drive on the green.
Cart Path Only
On some days, your golf course might have a rule about taking cart paths only. On those days you should keep your golf cart on the path and off the grass completely. In this case, you’ll need to drive to the point where you are in line with the ball and then walk out to it. To avoid any awkward moments, you should probably get into the habit of asking about the rules for the course that day when checking in so you can be prepared.
Pay Attention to Signs
As with driving any commuter vehicle on the road, you should take the time to read any signs posted on your golf course. There could be a special notice posted about any changes in the rules. If you’re new to the course and a first-time visitor, make sure you ask the attendants about any relevant driving rules. If you see a sign that says “No Carts Beyond This Point” then you shouldn’t drive it on the turf.
Don’t Go Joy Riding
Golf carts can be fun to drive around but try not to take yours for a joy ride on a golf course. This is a major irritant for other players and considered disrespectful. It can also lead to injuries in some cases. You should only use your cart to advance from one shot to the next, to travel between holes, and when you’re entering or exiting the turf. Remember that if the golf cart is property of the course, you could be held liable for any damages.
Use Common Sense
When you’re driving a golf cart, there are simple practices you should follow. Ignoring these basic rules could lead to you ending up in a screaming match with other golfers who see these rules as more common sense practices. We’ve mentioned some of the basics here so you will be prepared.
As a general rule of thumb, you should always stay behind other golfers when you’re driving. Regardless of how far away they might be, a far-shooting ball could easily land on you or your passenger and cause an injury. The chance of being hit by a ball may seem nonexistent, but you still want to take necessary precautions and stay behind other golfers to avoid it.
If you’re a new golfer, do keep in mind that this is a sport that requires extreme concentration. The smallest distraction can throw off a player’s focus and cause them to botch their swing. This can be extremely frustrating, so you should do your best to avoid loud noises at all costs. Don’t blast the radio, goof off or talk loudly on your way to the next hole.
We hope you’ll find these tips helpful when you reach a golf course! If you’re still looking for golf carts for sale in Haubstadt, IN, get in touch with us at Carts Gone Wild and we’ll show you our wide selection!