CAN I GET A DUI WHILE DRIVING A GOLF CART IN FLORIDA?
Sep 5, 2024
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When it comes to enjoying the beautiful scenery of Florida, golf carts have become a popular mode of transportation, particularly near the beaches and within large retirement communities. However, many individuals may not realize that operating these leisure vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs can result in serious legal repercussions. The widespread belief that golf carts are “safer” or “less dangerous” than conventional vehicles often leads to drivers throwing caution to the wind after a long evening of mai tais at the neighborhood tiki bar.
You don’t have to be from Florida to understand the general rules surrounding driving under the influence. Like most other states, Florida makes it unlawful for any person to drive or be in actual physical control of a “vehicle” while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance to the extent that the person’s normal faculties are impaired. Instead, the question about which most individuals are uncertain is whether this rule applies to golf carts.
The answer to that question is YES. Florida law defines a “golf cart” as “a motor vehicle designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sporting or recreational purposes.” It is this “motor vehicle” classification that subjects golf carts to the same DUI laws as cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles in Florida.
With that said, golf carts, while commonly viewed as benign recreational vehicles, still come with responsibilities. Not only do you put your own safety at risk when you operate a vehicle under the influence, but you put the safety of others in jeopardy as well. Impaired judgment and decreased motor skills can lead to reckless driving, increasing the likelihood of collisions with pedestrians and other motorists, resulting in severe injuries and even death. So before you cause a booze-fueled accident and find yourself in the backseat of a squad car, remember to plan ahead. Whether arranging for a designated driver or utilizing local ride-sharing services, a little planning can prevent a lot of regret and injury in the end.
If you were injured in an accident in Florida, contact Dolezal Law, P.A., to seek compensation for your injuries. Call (888) 411-7854 or visit www.dolezallaw.com for a free consultation.
Dolezal Law, P.A., is a personal injury law practice located in Pinellas County, Florida. Dolezal Law, P.A., does not practice, specialize, or represent clients in the area of criminal defense. If you have been charged with a DUI in Florida and are looking for legal representation, please be sure to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney licensed in the state.
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