The Hendersonville Police Department has issued a public safety reminder following an increase in unsafe and illegal golf cart use on city streets, many involving unlicensed juveniles.
According to HPD, the situation is becoming a real concern, with neighborhoods starting to resemble a “Mario Kart” race—except the danger is very real. Officers say they’ve received numerous complaints about golf carts being driven recklessly, at unsafe speeds, and in some cases nearly causing crashes with other vehicles.
Tennessee law is clear: golf carts are not allowed on public roads unless they are modified to meet specific safety and equipment standards laid out by state and federal regulations (TCA § 55-1-123 and 49 CFR 571.500). Even then, they must be registered, display a license plate, and follow all traffic laws.
Some key legal requirements for golf carts to be considered street-legal include:
* Proper lighting (headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals)
* Rearview mirror and slow-moving vehicle emblem
* Seat belts for all passengers
* A horn
* A maximum speed of 20 mph
* Daylight-only operation
* A licensed driver behind the wheel
Additionally, local ordinances (TCA § 55-8-185 and § 55-8-210) must permit golf cart use in specific retail or entertainment districts for operation to be legal.
HPD is responding to the issue by increasing patrols in affected areas, issuing warnings and citations, and continuing efforts to educate the public. Officers are also addressing unsafe behavior by drivers of standard vehicles who are speeding through neighborhoods.
Parents are urged to talk with their children about the risks and legal consequences of driving a motorized vehicle without a license. HPD emphasized that beyond being illegal, it’s dangerous for everyone involved.
As police continue their efforts to restore safety and calm on the streets, they encourage the public to help by following the law and keeping golf carts where they belong—on the greens.
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