A Villages resident representative is sounding the alarm after what some are calling a slow response to a recent golf cart fire.
Local firefighters reportedly had trouble finding the golf cart, which burned down to its frame in parking lot in the Phillips Villas, according to Villages-News. They said it was because that part of the development was still relatively new and the golf cart’s owner used a cell phone to call for help.
Villages Community Development District Four Supervisor Don Deakin said the incident should serve as a “wake up call” during a recent community meeting. He’s concerned about whether emergency personnel will be able to find people who are injured or suffering from serious medical issues in their times of need if they cannot spot plumes of smoke from a smoldering golf cart.
Why You Should Consider Golf Cart Insurance
The incident also is another example of why it’s vital that golf cart owners in the Villages and beyond insure their vehicles. The golf cart’s owner, an unnamed woman who recently moved into the new home, said she had up to $13,000 in limited insurance on the vehicle, according to Villages-News.
Unfortunately, accidents involving golf carts are a relatively common occurrence. That is particularly true in the Villages and other parts of Florida, where travel by cart is a common way for people to get from point A to Point B.
Florida law requires motor vehicle owners to obtain minimal Personal Injury Protection or “no fault” insurance coverage, which comes with a number of limits. PIP insurance caps coverage for property damage at $10,000. It also restricts personal injury benefits to $2,500 for anyone who does not suffer an “emergency medical condition” as a result of a crash or other accident.
Golf carts, however, are typically not considered motor vehicles under state law. That means they are not covered by PIP plans. In other words, you have to get separate insurance coverage if you want it for your cart. This is important because golf carts are treated as “dangerous instrumentalities.” As such, a golf cart owner is liable for injuries and property damage caused by anyone using the cart with the owner’s permission. The good news is that golf cart coverage can often be added to automobile or home insurance policies.
How a Villages Golf Cart Accident Attorney Can Help You
If you or a loved one has been injured in a golf cart crash in The Villages, you have the right to seek compensation and other legal remedies from those responsible. A seasoned personal injury lawyer can help you get the full compensation available under the law.
Tim Babiarz is a Villages golf cart accident attorney who has been representing people injured in accidents for more than two decades. Our office is conveniently located in The Villages. Our firm is proud to fight for clients in Ocala, Leesburg, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Summerfield and beyond. Call (352) 205-7599 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
