Injuries on rise as golf carts go off course: study

NEW YORK (Reuters Life!) - With golf carts becoming a popular means of transport off as well as on the course, the number of injuries involving these small vehicles is on the rise and maybe drivers should belt up, according to a U.S. study.

Researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Center for Injury Sciences found that there were more than 48,255 golf-cart related injuries between 2002 and 2005 -- or about 1,000 month -- with injuries more common and more severe.

The study found the highest injury rates among males aged 10 to 19 and men over 80 with some communities encouraging the use of golf carts as a primary means of transport because of their low emissions, low cost, quiet operation and presumed safety.

"Golf carts are becoming a popular way to get around in some neighborhoods, particularly for adolescents and teenagers who cannot yet drive a car," said Gerald McGwin, associate director for research at the Center for Injury Sciences, in a statement.

"A lot of people perceive golf carts as little more than toys, but our findings suggest they can be quite dangerous, especially when used on public roads."

The center's study, published in the Journal of Trauma: Injury, Infection and Critical Care, showed that fractures and head trauma were among the most common injuries associated with golf cart-related accidents.

"There is little federal regulation and most states do not require operators to be of a certain age, use any sort of safety equipment, or obtain on operators license," said McGwin.

He said this study suggested that safety standards were needed. He suggested manufacturers and sellers of golf carts should be required to include safety education materials at the time of sale.

McGwin said the high risk of rollover and ejection led to the conclusion that the use of helmets and seatbelts was recommended, particularly if the golf cart is driven on public roads.