Yes—you can get a DUI while driving a golf cart in California if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol while operating the motor vehicle. But why can you get a DUI while driving a golf cart in California?
This is because there’s a state law in place that makes it illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. But now that we’ve answered the question, “Can you get a DUI on a golf cart?” what should you do if you are arrested under suspicion of a DUI?
It is recommended that you never speak to the police directly. Instead, invoke your right to remain silent and contact a Burbank DUI lawyer for legal representation.
Do Police Arrest People for DUI on a Golf Cart?
California police officers are concerned about drunk drivers who cause major traffic accidents and road fatalities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one person is killed by drunk driving every 50 minutes in the United States.
For many police officers, golf cart DUI may not be on their radar. That’s why many DUI arrests involve passenger vehicles, semi-trucks, and other motor vehicles. After all, police officers tend to come across these types of vehicles more frequently since they can be driven on the roads.
However, that’s not to say law enforcement never spots people operating golf carts, especially in the following circumstances:
- Someone is injured in a golf cart crash
- A golf cart is driven on high-speed roads
- An intoxicated driver causes a public scene
- An onlooker calls the police to report a concerning situation
While it may seem like a misuse of police authority or a waste of resources for law enforcement to tend to a golf cart accident, golf carts are still motor vehicles, and these types of incidents can claim lives. That’s why golf carts are treated with the same regard as cars.
If you find yourself facing DUI charges after driving a golf cart while intoxicated, it’s wise to reach out to a Burbank criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. That way, your attorney will have ample time to build a strong defense in your name.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Can You Get a DUI on a Private Golf Course?
If you drive a golf cart on a private road while intoxicated, you can be arrested for a DUI. Police officers normally have little reason to enter private property, though they may choose to patrol a public golf course without cause.
Alternatively, if you become inebriated at a public or private golf course, the police may respond if other golfers report dangerous or illegal behavior. It does not matter whether you drive a golf cart on a public roadway or private property.
All in all, no matter where you are, if you are operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you can get a DUI.
Is it Legal to Drive a Golf Cart on the Road in California?
Per Cal. Veh. Code § 21254, golf carts are considered low-speed vehicles. As long as a golf cart has not been modified to drive faster than 15 miles per hour, it may be permitted on some roads with a speed limit of 25 miles per hour or less.
To be considered “street legal,” a golf cart must be equipped with the following:
- Headlights
- Brake lights
- Seatbelts
- Side and rear-view mirrors
- Windshield reflectors
Golf carts are commonly used on residential roads, but the vehicle must be registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles, and drivers must carry auto insurance. It is important to note that golf carts may only be driven on the road during daylight hours.
Do You Need a Driver’s License to Drive a Golf Cart?
You may need a driver’s license to drive a golf cart, depending on where it is used. If you want to drive a golf cart to get around on private property, you don’t need a driver’s license. But if you plan to drive a golf cart on a public road or highway, you must have a valid driver’s license.
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Can You Lose Your License After Golf Cart DUI Charges?
As with any vehicle, if you drive a golf cart while drunk, you may lose your driving privileges. If you are charged with a misdemeanor, you can lose your driver’s license for four months for a first offense. Repeat offenders may be charged with a felony.
In addition to losing your license, you can expect hefty fines, jail time, and difficulty securing college scholarships after a golf cart DUI in California. The best course of action would be to refrain from alcohol if you plan on driving a golf cart.
While golf carts are not normally associated with drunk driving wrecks, you should do everything you can to avoid an accident.
DUI Penalties for Golf Cart Operation in California
A DUI in California is considered either a misdemeanor or a felony based on the details of the situation. While you may not expect this standard to apply to golf carts, California Vehicle Code Section 670 defines a vehicle as any device that can propel a person or cargo on a highway.
Anything that is not moved entirely by manpower or used on a stationary track is deemed a vehicle. As such, the following modes of transportation are examples of vehicles in the eyes of California laws:
- Golf carts
- Lawnmowers
- Wheelchairs
- Mopeds
- All-terrain vehicles
- Bicycles
- Horses
If you’re convicted of a DUI while operating a golf cart, the penalties can be similar to those associated with a DUI in a standard vehicle. Potential consequences in California may include the following:
- Fines and license suspension: DUI penalties often involve hefty fines and can result in the suspension of your driving privileges.
- Mandatory DUI classes: A court may require you to attend DUI education programs, similar to what’s required for DUI offenses in cars.
- Criminal record: A DUI conviction may result in a permanent criminal record, which could affect future employment or other aspects of your life.
What Other Consequences Can You Face for a DUI While Driving a Golf Cart?
Receiving a DUI while driving a golf cart can have other far-reaching implications beyond fines and criminal records. Here are a few key considerations you should keep in mind:
- Insurance consequences: Like any DUI conviction, a DUI on a golf cart could lead to increased insurance premiums, even for standard vehicles. Insurance companies may view any DUI offense as a high-risk indicator.
- Professional impact: Certain professional licenses and employment opportunities require a clean record. A DUI conviction, even in a golf cart, could jeopardize these opportunities.
- Travel restrictions: Some countries restrict entry for individuals with a DUI conviction on their record. If you’re planning to travel abroad, you may face limitations due to a golf cart DUI conviction.
Contact a Burbank DUI Attorney Today for a Free Consultation
At the end of the day, you can get a DUI while driving a golf cart in California if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol while operating it. This is true no matter if you are riding on public roads or areas governed by state traffic laws.
Given the serious consequences of a DUI conviction—including fines, license suspension, and a potential criminal record—understanding your legal rights and obligations is a must. If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI in a golf cart, contact Simmrin Law Group today.
We’re here to provide you with professional support and develop defense strategies on your behalf. Call us to schedule a consultation, learn more about us, and understand how we can help you protect your rights.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form