How Do An LSV And A Golf Cart Differ?
The truth is that an LSV and a golf cart both appear to be the same thing. The truth is that functionality is the primary difference between the two vehicles.
An LSV is primarily used as a transportation mode around the streets and the highway, while the golf cart is basically for use on the golf course, private property and convenient travel around a neighborhood.
When it is equipped with various safety measures, an LSV is approved to be put to use on streets that have a speed limit not exceeding 35mph.
Some of these safety measures will include things like turn signals, headlamps, brake lights, rearview mirrors, a windshield and seatbelts.
What Are the Massachusetts Golf Cart Laws?
How Old Do I Have To Be?
To drive the golf cart, you must be over 16 years of age. In addition, you are required to possess a driver’s license. Should you only possess a learner’s permit, it is only when you are accompanied by an adult 21 years of age or older that you may drive the golf cart.
How Far And Exactly When Can I Drive
A speed greater than 20mph is not allowed and you may not drive the cart at night. The truth is that properly observing the speed limits will help make certain that the safety of both the driver and all pedestrians is ensured.
What Must I Have With Me When Operating The Vehicle?
When driving a golf cart, you are required to possess and carry a driver’s license. If you are only in possession of a learner’s permit, you must have an individual with you to supervise and they must be at least 21 years of age and have a driver’s license.
Alcohol
You have to be sober when driving a cart. It is a crime to drive under the influence of alcohol and you must be aware that doing so is a true danger to yourself and to other drivers. If you are discovered driving intoxicated, you are subject to being fined probably about $75.00 or so.
Underage Drivers Liability Dangers When Involved In An Accident
In normal circumstances, damage sustained in an accident is covered by the insurance company. If however the driver at the wheel is underage, they will not cover the damages and it will be the parent or the guardian of the underage driver involved who will be responsible for any and all damages that are incurred.
The Massachusetts LSV Laws
What Equipment Is Required for a LSV to be Street Legal?
To be street legal, an LSV has to be inspected and ruled safe to be driven on streets and highways. The LSV is also required to have turn signals, rear lights, a seatbelt, brake lights, rearview mirrors and headlamps.
How Old Must I Be to Drive?
One must be of legal driving age to drive an LSV. This means that you must be at least 16 years of age and possess a proper driver’s license. When driving, make certain that you respect all other drivers and that you always follow all traffic rules.
How Far And Exactly When Can You Drive?
You are permitted to drive the LSV to a speed limit higher than 20mph but absolutely not higher than 30mph. It is so important you heed the speed limits in the particular area that you are operating in and remember that the LSV is not permitted to be driven at night.
What Paperwork Am I Required To Have With Me When Operating The LSV?
You must have a driver’s license with you at all times when operating an LSV. Should you only possess a learner’s permit, on the front seat you have to have a supervisor at least 21 years of age and they must possess their own driver’s license.
Alcohol
Should you be at all under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it is vital that you never attempt to operate an LSV.
Underage Drivers Liability Dangers When Involved In An Accident
The LSV must be insured before it is put on the road. Failure to have proper insurance or should the operator be underage switched responsibility for all damages incurred from the insurance company to the parent or guardian of the underage driver involved.
To Register An LSV, What Is Necessary To Have For The Department Of Motor Vehicles?
To register the LSV you will require a driver’s license and proof of proper insurance by an established insurance company. You will also be required to show that the LSV has properly passed all required inspections.
Summary
Always make certain that your LSV is properly equipped and safe to drive on the highway, and always make certain that you make every effort to properly observe the Massachusetts golf cart and LSV laws.
