Beyond the Course: Why Golf Cart Insurance Matters

Golf carts aren’t just for the green anymore. From retirement communities and beach towns to private properties and even small neighborhoods, golf carts are becoming a popular and convenient way to get around. But what happens if you’re involved in an accident—or if your golf cart is damaged or stolen?

Whether you use it to cruise around your neighborhood in Narragansett or transport gear at your summer place near Warwick, Rhode Island, golf cart insurance can offer essential protection that your homeowners or auto policy may not fully cover.

🛺 Is Golf Cart Insurance Required?

That depends on how and where you use your golf cart:

  • Private Property Use Only: If you're using your cart strictly on private property, your homeowners insurance may offer limited liability coverage—but it likely won’t cover accidents or damage away from home.

  • Public Roads or Neighborhood Use: Many Rhode Island towns allow golf carts on certain roads. If you're driving your cart beyond your driveway, you’ll likely need a separate policy—or you could be left without coverage in the event of an accident.

  • Golf Course Use: Some golf courses may offer limited liability coverage while you're on their property, but it’s not guaranteed and doesn't protect you once you leave the course.

🛡️ What Does Golf Cart Insurance Cover?

Golf cart insurance is typically similar to auto insurance and may include:

  • Liability Coverage – Covers bodily injury or property damage if you’re at fault in an accident.

  • Collision Coverage – Pays for damage to your cart after a crash, regardless of who’s at fault.

  • Comprehensive Coverage – Protects against non-collision events like theft, vandalism, fire, or weather damage.

  • Medical Payments Coverage – Helps cover medical expenses for you or your passengers.

  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage – Protects you if you're hit by someone without adequate insurance.

🔍 Does Home or Auto Insurance Cover Golf Carts?

In some cases, your homeowners insurance may offer minimal liability protection, especially if the cart is used on your property. However, it often excludes physical damage coverage and won’t help much if you drive your cart on public roads.

Your auto insurance typically won’t cover golf carts at all—especially if they’re not street-legal. That’s why a standalone golf cart policy is the safest and most complete way to protect your investment.

📝 Tips When Insuring a Golf Cart

  • Tell your agent how you use your cart – Usage matters. The more your cart is used outside your property, the more coverage you may need.

  • Consider customization coverage – If your cart has upgrades like custom wheels, seats, or a sound system, ask about accessory coverage.

  • Bundle for potential savings – If you already insure your home or auto through The Slocum Agency, we may be able to place your golf cart policy with the same carrier for potential discounts.

Protect Your Ride—On and Off the Course

At The Slocum Agency, we understand that not every ride has four doors and a license plate. If you own a golf cart in Rhode Island, let’s make sure you have the right protection in place—before you take your next spin.

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