If you find yourself walking away from a golf cart or low-speed vehicle (LSV) accident, you may ask yourself what New Mexico laws might help you recover. However, you may feel overwhelmed about the next steps you have to take in order to gain compensation, which is why Dominguez Law is here to help.
Our compassionate and aggressive lawyers with Dominguez Law can help you outline what action to take to facilitate a straightforward and speedy golf cart accident recovery. You can secure the legal representation you need to bring a personal injury lawsuit against the party liable for your most recent accident.
Distinguishing Between a Golf Cart and an LSV by Top Speed
A person may own a golf cart without meeting as many of the legal stipulations that owning an LSV requires, as New Mexico law defines these vehicles differently. For example, someone purchasing an LSV must register their vehicle, complete an inspection to verify its safety, and invest in vehicular insurance. LSV operators also have to have a valid driver’s license and license plate to operate an LSV.
While LSVs must adhere to more stringent federal safety standards, golf carts can operate under more relaxed state and local regulations as long as they do not exceed a speed of 20 miles per hour. LSV operators must also specifically invest in either PIP insurance or no-fault coverage comparable to the state’s minimum liability coverage if they want to legally operate their vehicles on the road. Moreover, specific state statutes require all LSVs in New Mexico to restrict operations to roads with posted speed limits of 35 MPH or less.
Golf cart owners, comparatively, do not have to license their vehicles, do not have to have licenses to operate their carts, and may use motorcycle insurance to protect them from injuries. Even then, golf cart owners are not legally required to purchase insurance to protect themselves or others while using their vehicles.
Golf Cart Laws in New Mexico
At first glance, it may seem like owning a golf cart in New Mexico comes with fewer restrictions than owning an LSV. This is not necessarily the case, though. Golf cart drivers in New Mexico must abide by the following laws to avoid tickets or, in some cases, misdemeanor penalties:
- All golf cart drivers must be at least 15 years old
- Golf cart operations are restricted to specific facilities
- Drivers may only operate golf carts between sunrise and sunset, ensuring they do not exceed the speed limit of 20 miles per hour
- All golf carts must have safe tires and steering wheels
- All golf carts must have up-to-date safety gear, including brakes
- No one may operate a golf cart while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- No one may text and drive while operating a golf cart
Municipalities and local governments play a crucial role in granting permission for golf carts to be driven on public roads.
New Mexico also states that parents who allow underage drivers to operate a golf cart must assume legal liability for the child’s behavior. If a child violates local golf cart or roadway laws, parents may open themselves up to lawsuits from injured parties.
In New Mexico, golf carts typically have a top speed regulated by state law, ensuring they do not exceed 20 miles per hour on public roads.
Safety and Liability for Golf Cart Owners
As a golf cart owner, understanding the safety and liability implications of operating your vehicle on public roads is crucial. While New Mexico has its own set of regulations, it’s helpful to look at Arizona’s requirements for a broader perspective. In Arizona, golf cart owners must register their vehicles and obtain liability insurance with a minimum coverage of $10,000 for property damage and $15,000 for bodily injury. This insurance is vital in case of an accident, as it can protect you and your passengers from significant financial losses.
Ensuring your golf cart is equipped with necessary safety features, such as working headlights, brake lights, and a horn, is essential. Although golf carts are exempt from the Arizona requirement for a windshield, other safety features are non-negotiable. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your cart in good working condition and minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Safe operating practices are equally important. Always wear seat belts, follow traffic laws, and stay aware of your surroundings. In case of an accident, seeking the advice of an experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process. An attorney can discuss your case, help you understand your rights, and determine the best course of action.
LSV Laws in New Mexico
There are additional laws in place addressing New Mexico LSV ownership that you should consider before interacting with LSVs or their owners. For example, all LSVs must have up-to-date equipment before they operate on applicable roads. This equipment can include the aforementioned brakes, tires, and steering wheels, as well as the following:
- Headlights
- Seatbelts
- Turn signals
- Rearview mirrors
- Horn
LSV drivers must also keep a copy of their vehicle identification number and license plate on their vehicle while operating said vehicle.
As is the case with golf carts, LSV drivers may not operate their vehicles at night and can face legal penalties if they are caught texting and driving.
Tips for Safe Operation
To ensure the safe operation of your golf cart, consider the following tips:
- Always wear a seat belt while operating your golf cart.
- Follow all traffic laws and regulations, including posted speed limits and right-of-way rules.
- Stay aware of your surroundings, including pedestrians, other vehicles, and road conditions.
- Regularly maintain your golf cart to ensure it is in good working condition.
- Never operate your golf cart while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Always yield to pedestrians and other vehicles when necessary.
- Use your horn to alert others of your presence.
- Never operate your golf cart on roads with a posted speed limit greater than 35 MPH.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for operating and maintaining your golf cart.
- Consider taking a golf cart safety course to learn more about safe operating practices.
By following these tips and understanding the safety and liability implications of operating a golf cart, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for yourself and other road users.
Schedule a Free Golf Cart and LSV Accident Injuries Case Evaluation Today
The personal injury lawyers with Dominguez Law are here to help you overcome losses sustained in a recent golf cart and LSV accident. Our team can bring a comprehensive understanding of New Mexico’s golf cart and LSV laws to your fight for compensation. We can then use that knowledge to more effectively hold a liable party accountable for the negligence that led to your crash.
The sooner you get in touch with our attorneys, the faster we can tackle your case. You can call us at (505) 499-5524 or contact us online to book a free personal injury case evaluation. We also speak Spanish.
Q&A for Golf Cart and LSV
Do you need a driver’s license to drive a golf cart in New Mexico?
No, you do not need a driver’s license to operate a golf cart in New Mexico. However, specific conditions apply. Golf carts are only allowed on designated roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less, and operators must comply with local ordinances. Always verify regulations in your area to ensure safe and lawful operation of a golf cart.
What is required to operate a low-speed vehicle (LSV) in New Mexico?
To operate an LSV in New Mexico, you must have a valid driver’s license, register the vehicle, and obtain appropriate insurance such as PIP or no-fault coverage. Additionally, LSVs must meet specific requirements for safety equipment, including seat belts, headlights, turn signals, and a horn. These regulations ensure compliance with federal and state safety standards.
What requirements must LSVs meet to be road-legal in New Mexico?
LSVs must meet several specific requirements to be road-legal in New Mexico, including having seat belts, headlights, turn signals, rearview mirrors, and a horn. They must also be insured and restricted to roads with speed limits of 35 MPH or less. These measures ensure safety for both LSV drivers and other road users.
Can golf carts and LSVs operate on the same roads in New Mexico?
No, golf carts and LSVs have different operational guidelines. LSVs may operate on roads with speed limits up to 35 MPH, provided they meet safety standards and the driver has a valid license. Golf carts, however, are typically restricted to specific facilities or low-speed areas and cannot exceed 20 MPH.
What are the age requirements for golf cart drivers in New Mexico?
Golf cart drivers in New Mexico must be at least 15 years old to legally operate their vehicles. Parents who allow underage children to drive a golf cart assume legal liability for the child’s actions, including any accidents or violations of local laws.
Can golf cart drivers face penalties for violating safety or operational rules?
Yes, golf cart drivers can face penalties for failing to adhere to safety and operational rules. This includes operating under the influence, texting while driving, or exceeding the 20 MPH speed limit. Violations can result in tickets or, in severe cases, misdemeanor charges, depending on the infraction.
Why is a valid driver’s license required for low-speed vehicles but not for golf carts?
A valid driver’s license is required for LSVs because they are designed for use on public roads and must comply with federal safety standards. Golf carts, by contrast, are typically restricted to private facilities or low-speed zones, which reduces the risk and need for licensed operation.
