Collision involving golf cart raises questions regarding danger and legalities of recreational vehicles on the roadway

gccGILBERTSVILLE – A recent collision involving a truck and golf cart in a local community has once again raised questions regarding the dangers and legality of operating such vehicles on the roadway.

The incident occurred on May 17 near the 400 block of Moors Road off of Moors Camp Highway just after 11 a.m. According to preliminary information, the driver of the golf cart stated he had gotten over as far as possible but was struck by the oncoming vehicle anyway. Of the two passengers in the golf cart, one was injured and another airlifted due to injuries sustained in the collision.

Several in the community have questioned why there were no charges filed against the driver of the truck which has renewed a conversation that drew quite a bit of attention several years ago: the legality of recreational vehicles being operated on the roadway.

Marshall County Sheriff Kevin Byars confirms that in this case, the driver of the truck did not commit any traffic violations. He also confirms that it is still illegal to operate golf carts, ATVs and other types of recreational vehicles on the roadway unless they meet specific state guidelines.

“What we tell anyone is that vehicles such as these are prohibited from being on the roadways,” Byars said adding that however, usage is very common in many communities around the county, specifically in and around the lakes area.

In some counties and cities across the Commonwealth, local governmental bodies have addressed this issue by passing ordinances allowing recreational vehicle usage on roadways. However, the city of Calvert is the only community in Marshall County where a specific ordinance has been passed allowing their use.

The issue was heavily debated several years ago where the county Fiscal Court considered passing an ordinance outlining specific usage terms, but ultimately decided against it.

Kentucky first allowed golf carts on city streets in 2008 as an increase in recreational vehicles spiked in the wake of rapidly rising fuel costs. The law permitted use of golf carts on streets within five miles of a golf course, but that clause was later dropped in 2010.

State law now says the carts may not operate at more than 35 mph, may only carry up to six people and must not exceed a maximum weight of 2,500 pounds.

Local governments can opt to issue permits for usage providing a sticker saying that the cart has been approved for use on local streets. A sheriff’s inspection is required and carts can only travel on streets with a posted limit of 35 mph during daylight hours only.

They must have a slow-moving vehicle emblem attached and the driver must have a valid driver’s license and insurance.