Greetings, Fleet Pros,
Summer is almost in full swing—and so are the golf carts and utility vehicles rolling across campuses, resorts, hospitals, warehouses, parks, and more. Whether transporting people, equipment, or supplies, these small but mighty fleet vehicles are essential to internal operations.
But here’s the catch: while they may look harmless, golf carts and UTVs pose serious safety challenges. Unlike enclosed vehicles, they often lack protective features, can reach surprising speeds, and operate in high-foot-traffic zones.
At NTSI, we deliver fleet driver training that goes beyond compliance. We build awareness, shift behavior, and help teams drive SAFER—no matter what they’re operating.
What Is SAFER?
Our NTSI training model centers around:
- S – Safer choices behind the wheel
- A – Aware of surroundings, passengers, and conditions
- F – Focused attention at all times
- E – Educated on the unique risks of their vehicle type
- R – Responsible for their decisions and outcomes
And that model applies just as much to golf carts and utility vehicles as it does to trucks, vans, and SUVs.
The SAFER Summer Approach to Golf Cart Safety
Though they may appear low-risk due to their modest size and speed, golf carts and utility vehicles pose serious safety concerns, particularly during the summer months when their use surges. A growing body of research underscores this danger. A study published in the Journal of Safety Research found that children and older adults are disproportionately injured in golf cart incidents, often due to falls, sharp turns, or loss of control, and frequently while operating the vehicle in non-golf settings. Earlier data from the American Journal of Preventive Medicine estimated 148,000 golf cart-related injuries in the U.S. between 1990 and 2006, with annual incidents nearly doubling over that period, a trend that continues today.
Recent headlines echo those findings. In North Carolina, five middle school students were hospitalized after a golf cart crash during a summer program. In Florida, investigative reports revealed an alarming uptick in neighborhood and school-related crashes, many involving unlicensed or untrained drivers. These vehicles typically lack seatbelts, doors, and mirrors, and are often entrusted to staff or young people who may not understand their unique handling limitations. In areas with high pedestrian activity, the risks compound quickly.
For fleet managers, the message is clear: golf carts and utility vehicles deserve the same rigorous safety protocols and training standards applied to the rest of your fleet.
Underestimating them is not just outdated, it is dangerous.
Now let us translate that knowledge into action for golf carts and utility vehicles during the busy summer season:
S – Stay Attuned to Your Environment
Golf carts often share space with pedestrians, service vehicles, and cyclists. The absence of mirrors, turn signals, or doors makes awareness critical. Always scan surroundings and approach crosswalks and corners with extra caution.
A – Assume Not Everyone Sees You
A driver’s license ≠ training. Require specific golf cart safety training for all operators.Train drivers to anticipate being overlooked and adjust accordingly.
F – Forget the “It’s Just a Golf Cart” Mentality
Just because someone has a driver’s license does not mean they know how to operate a golf cart safely. According to the NHTSA, neighborhood electric vehicles and low-speed utility vehicles require training and care. Treat them with the same seriousness as any other fleet asset.
E – Educate on Weight, Weather, and Terrain
Summer months bring not just heat, but wet grass, dusty trails, and uneven surfaces. Heavier loads, sharp turns, and slick pathways can result in rollover risk or loss of control. Equip drivers with knowledge on how to adjust to changing summer conditions.
R – Require Consistency Across Locations
From resorts to retirement communities, from campuses to industrial parks, no matter where golf carts are used, your fleet policy should be clear: only authorized, trained operators allowed, and all vehicles are subject to routine safety checks.
🎯 Final Reminder: Every Vehicle Deserves a Safety Plan
Golf Cart Fleet Safety isn’t just about preventing scrapes and fender-benders—it’s about protecting people, property, and your fleet’s reputation. At NTSI, we’re committed to helping fleet managers build a culture of professionalism and preparedness.
Whether it hauls freight or hauls your crew across the quad, your smallest fleet vehicle deserves your biggest safety efforts.
Until next Tuesday, drive smart, drive safe, and always drive SAFER.
