We have a fantastic community here on Davis Islands and many folks like to utilize “Low-Speed Vehicles” to get around. I bring this up because over the past number of years we see more of these vehicles on our roads and sometimes folks forget there is a significant difference between a “low-speed vehicles” and “golf carts”. One is legal on our roads and the other could get you a warning by Tampa Police or even a ticket! The question you are probably now asking is “What is the difference?”
The term “low-speed vehicle” means any four-wheeled electric vehicle whose top speed is greater than 20 miles per hour but not greater than 25 miles per hour. Low-speed vehicles must comply with specific safety standards.
- Vehicle must have a license tag and be insured
- The operator must have a valid drivers license
- Vehicle must be equipped with the following:headlamps, stop lamps, turn signal lamps, tail lamps, reflex reflectors, parking brakes, rearview mirrors, windshields, seat belts and vehicles identifications number
The term “golf cart” means a motor vehicle that is designed and manufactured for operation on a golf course for sport or recreation purposes and that is not capable of exceeding speeds of 20 miles per hour.
If you are in the market for seeking alternative transportation options around our great community just make sure to stay informed.
