BLUFFTON, S.C. (WTOC) – Before the new year officially started, golf cart owners in Bluffton had to make some changes to their vehicles.
The town is now enforcing a new law to try to keep people safe on the roads.
READ HERE: New golf cart law set to take effect in Bluffton in January
It was passed after town officials saw several crashes involving golf carts over the past few years.
Golf carts are something that have become a way of life for many in Bluffton.
“Most of our friends have golf carts,” Golf Cart owner, Ethan Kindwall, said. “You can’t live in Old Town Bluffton without a golf cart.”
It is used as a way for many to get from point A to point B without having to get in the car.
“It’s so easy to get around to the playground, down to the water, and downtown to the restaurants,” golf cart owner, Peter Benoit, said.
Under the new law passed by the town, every golf cart must be equipped with seatbelts, and everyone, from toddlers to adults, must wear one—like the law passed by the state last year.
“Especially when you have a little kid, being able to strap him in and not having to hold him on with your arm,” Benoit said.
The driver of the cart also must have a valid license, registration, and insurance if they are on a town road.
They will also now be able to legally travel at night if they have the right equipment, which some people had to add before the new year.
“Had to put on turn signals on my golf cart,” Kindwall said.
“Had to put a rearview mirror in,” Benoit said.
It also limits people to driving on two-lane town-maintained roads that do not go over 35 miles per hour.
Meaning no roundabouts, pathways, or sidewalks.
The town says that each part of the law is to ensure their roads are safer, which people can get behind.
If someone is found breaking this law, they could face 30 days’ jail time or be forced to pay a fine.
“Whatever we can do to keep them safe is of high importance,” Kindwall said.
This law does not apply to some neighborhoods that may be gated or have county-maintained roads.
Both Kindwall and Benoit add that golf carts aren’t the only thing that needs restrictions.
They say the town should also look at adding safety restrictions on electric bikes and scooters, which are becoming more prevalent in the area.
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