Hello Fleet Champions! With the Solstice in the rear view mirror, Summer has officially arrived!
As the seasons change, the need for fleet driver safety remains constant. So let’s keep the good times rolling by focusing on golf cart safety tips and the importance of safety for those operating them. This is particularly vital for organizations like universities, large corporate campuses, hotels and resorts, theme parks, hospitals, airports, municipal parks, senior living communities, and more, which use these vehicles daily.
Between 2007 and 2017, there were 154,608 golf cart-related injuries in the U.S., and more recent data shows over 18,000 annual injuries in Florida alone. These alarming statistics have led to increased regulations for golf carts and utility vehicles, prompting municipalities and organizations to recognize the critical need for driver safety training.
So, drive SAFER today with these golf cart safety tips for managing golf cart and utility vehicle fleets from NTSI:
- Regular Maintenance Checks: Regularly inspect your golf carts and utility vehicles to ensure they are in optimal condition. Check tire pressure, brakes, lights, and steering mechanisms. Ensuring all parts are functioning correctly can prevent accidents and breakdowns.
- Proper Golf Cart & Utility Vehicle Safety Training for Drivers: Ensure all drivers undergo proper training specific to the operation of golf carts and utility vehicles. This training should cover the vehicle’s controls, safe driving practices, and emergency procedures. Fleet driver training programs can be adapted to include these smaller, specialized vehicles.
- Adhere to Speed Limits: Establish and enforce speed limits within your campus or facility. Golf carts and utility vehicles should be driven at safe speeds, especially in areas with high foot traffic. Remind drivers that these vehicles are not designed for high speeds and must be operated cautiously.
- Be Aware of Weather Conditions: Summer weather can bring unexpected changes. Remind drivers to be cautious during Summer rain storms or on wet surfaces, as these can make the small tires of golf carts and utility vehicles more prone to slipping. Extreme heat can also affect vehicle performance, so regular checks and maintenance are even more critical during hot spells.
- Passenger Safety: Limit the number of passengers to the vehicle’s capacity and ensure everyone is seated properly before moving. Standing passengers or overloading can lead to accidents or tip-overs, especially when turning.
- Load Management: Ensure loads are properly balanced and secured. Overloading or improperly loaded vehicles can affect stability and handling, increasing the risk of accidents. Drivers should be trained to recognize safe loading practices.
- Awareness of Surroundings: Drivers should always be aware of their surroundings, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles. Using mirrors and maintaining a vigilant eye on the road can prevent collisions.
- Communication and Reporting: Encourage drivers to report any issues or incidents immediately. Open communication channels ensure that any potential problems are addressed promptly, maintaining a SAFER environment for everyone.
Prioritizing training, along with implementing these safety tips, you’ll keep your golf cart and utility vehicle fleets zipping safely along, reducing accidents and ensuring everyone has a smooth ride all summer long!
Also, check out any missed Tuesday Tips where you can always find savvy seasonal tips on SAFER driving.
