Golf Cart Etiquette Has Changed in the Past Few Decades

Golf is a sport in which the players pride themselves on close attention to rules and exemplary etiquette, and behavior on a golf cart should also adhere to these principles. While the general rules for golf carts have remained the same for years, new technologies are creating additional rules and redefining etiquette.

Playing Music from Your Golf Cart

The days of tranquility on the golf course are slowly coming to an end, as more golfers warm up to the idea of listening to music while they enjoy a round of golf. While some golfers may always opt for relative silence when playing, the rising popularity of custom sound systems and online music networks is transforming the golf cart industry.

As more players start installing stereos on carts and carrying bags with Bluetooth radios, the rules of golf cart etiquette need to be adjusted. Sure, if you are alone on the course and other golfers cannot hear the music, that is one thing. But if you are with a group, it is considered good etiquette to check with the others in the group to make sure they approve. You may even want to get their opinion on the genre of music. After all, heavy metal was not meant for the golf course.

Using a Smartphone

Few technologies have made an impact on our lives the way smartphones have. We can now play games, listen to music, and communicate with others, all from the palm of a hand. Unfortunately, smartphones also create distractions and could even lead to an accident while operating the golf cart.

As with driving your car, texting while driving a golf cart is dangerous and could result in damaging the cart and course, or worse, injuring someone. Talking on the phone or playing games around other golfers can be regarded as inconsiderate, so it is best to leave the smartphone until after the round.

Golf Course Approved Tires

Lifted golf carts are great in the snow or in rough terrain because they can fit large, knobby tires that provide a high level of traction. But, on the cart path or fairway, there is no need for oversized tires, and, in fact, most courses have rules against the use of unapproved golf course tires.

While there may be a handful of courses that will allow exceptions for all-terrain tires, these could damage the fairways. Golf course approved tires are made with a comparatively smooth surface that is specifically designed to minimize damage.

Stay on the Cart Path

All golf courses have signs dedicating certain paths for use, in addition to rules such as “cart paths only,” which informs golfers they cannot drive on the grass. This rule has been in effect for years, and it still applies to the modern course. It can be tempting to take a shortcut to the next tee box, but, just remember, these signs are in place for a reason, and it is usually for the benefit of the golfers.

Driving at Safe Speeds

As golf carts have evolved and customizations have increased, so has the top speed of many carts. Driving at high speeds, whether with a custom-built golf cart or a stock model, can drastically increase the chances of injury. In addition, excessive speeds can lead to loss of control, which could result in damage to the course or the dreaded cart in the pond.

Many courses have paths leading to the parking lot so that golfers can drive their equipment directly to their vehicle, and this can present its own dangers. Be sure to adhere to any posted rules regarding golf carts in the parking lot and be cautious of motorized traffic.

Be Mindful of the Turf

There are few things more frustrating in golf than hitting the perfect drive, only to have the ball come to a rest in a golf cart tread mark. While assessing the conditions of the turf on every hole is not possible, it is important to note problematic areas. Furthermore, course conditions can change very quickly, and there are not always signs prohibiting carts.

One way to prevent damaging the grass with a cart is to maintain slow speeds and continually avoid areas where water has softened the turf. If the cart begins to sink into the mud or the tires begin to slip, then immediately return to the cart path.

Conclusion

Many of the rules that govern carts on the golf course have remained unchanged for years. Still, as new technologies are introduced to the golf world, rules and etiquette will require adaptation. Practicing habits like driving safely, limiting smartphone usage, and keeping to designated cart paths, can make for a more enjoyable experience for everyone. In the end, using your best judgment and being courteous to other players will go a long way.