Golf carts are now permitted to cross one of the area’s busiest roadways in New Port Richey, U.S. 19.
The city of New Port Richey began allowing crossings on U.S. 19 and Gulf Drive in July.
Since numerous golf cart users wanted more access to the downtown area as well as other places east of U.S. 19, the city made the change.
Following a traffic analysis, the state had to grant the city approval to permit the crossing. The installation of golf cart signs at the intersection was subject to permission.
However, it does raise some safety issues because of the high speeds and frequent accidents on U.S. 19 in Pasco County.
It is advised for golf cart users to wear their seatbelts and make sure their blinkers are fully functioning before they attempt to cross U.S. 19.
New Port Richey is also developing a crossing at Marine Parkway that would allow golf cart users from Gulf Harbors to cross U.S.19.
The golf carts travel across the major roadway like any other vehicle, abiding by the same traffic regulations as regular motorists.
U.S. 19 in Pasco County is considered one of the most dangerous stretch of roadways in America, so it will certainly be interesting to see how adding golf carts to the mix will play out.
A car can easily overtake a golf cart, and crossings can be hazardous. Additionally, given that cars and trucks move much more quickly than golf carts do on the road, drivers must take extra caution to avoid hitting cars, trucks, motorcycles, delivery vehicles, bikers, and even pedestrians.
Golf cart collisions can be fatal or cause a variety of serious injuries. The following are some of the most frequent injuries:
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord trauma
- Knee injuries
- Neck injuries
- Burns
- Shoulder injuries
- Lacerations
- Amputations
- Wrongful death
Our New Port Richey Personal Injury Lawyers at Whittel & Melton proudly represent injured passengers, pedestrians, and motorists hurt in golf cart accidents. We can provide a thorough and completely free legal review of your injury claim and help you pursue the settlement you deserve. Continue reading
