Yes. If you plan to drive on public roads in South Carolina, you must have golf cart rental insurance that meets the state’s minimum vehicle liability coverage. If you’re only driving on private property, insurance is optional but recommended for added protection.
Planning a beachside getaway and thinking about renting a 4-passenger golf cart to cruise around the Isle of Palms? You might be wondering: Do I need golf cart rental insurance? We’ll break down when it’s required, what coverage you need, and how to protect yourself.
Is Golf Cart Rental Insurance Required in Isle of Palms?
Most golf cart rentals don’t require insurance just to rent a cart, but South Carolina law requires liability insurance if you plan to drive a golf cart on public roads. Your cart must be insured at the same minimum coverage level as a standard vehicle.
What Happens If You Drive Without Insurance?
You could face fines and other penalties if caught operating a golf cart on public roads without liability insurance.
Private Property Use
Insurance isn’t required on private property, but it’s a smart way to protect against theft, damage, or accidents.
Does Just Beachy Golf Cart Rentals Provide Insurance?
Some rental companies offer liability insurance as part of the rental agreement. Check with Just Beachy Golf Cart Rentals to see what’s included and whether additional coverage is recommended for your trip.
Isle of Palms Golf Cart Laws You Need to Know
Before you start cruising, knowing the local golf cart laws in Isle of Palms is important. Here are the regulations to keep in mind:
- Permit required. All golf carts must have a current South Carolina DMV decal and two city golf cart permit decals (one on the left front fender and one on the left rear fender).
- Road restrictions. Golf carts are permitted only on roads with a posted speed limit of 35 mph or lower. They cannot be driven on major roads but can cross them at designated points.
- Driver requirements. The driver must be at least 16 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and carry proof of liability insurance while operating the cart.
- Traffic laws apply. Golf carts must follow all road rules, including stop signs, hand signals, and parking regulations.
In addition to following local laws, Just Beachy Golf Cart Rentals has a few additional guidelines to ensure a safe experience for all our renters:
- Primary renters must be 25+ with a valid driver’s license.
- Drivers must be 21+ and have a valid driver’s license.
- Follow all local laws and regulations while operating the golf cart.
- No drinking and driving—golf carts and margaritas don’t mix!
Check with your current insurance provider to see if you’re covered while driving a rented golf cart.
Does My Auto Insurance Cover a Golf Cart Rental?
Many standard car insurance policies don’t cover golf carts or low speed vehicles (LSVs). However, some policies offer limited coverage for rented golf carts under their “personal liability” section.
Here’s a quick way to check:
- Call your insurance company and ask if your policy includes rented golf carts under liability coverage.
- Look for non-owned vehicle coverage—this may extend to rented golf carts.
- Check your credit card perks. Some offer rental protection, though it’s usually for cars, not golf carts.
If your policy doesn’t cover golf cart rentals, you might want to consider short-term rental insurance or adding temporary coverage.
What Happens If I Damage a Rented Golf Cart?
Accidents happen—even in paradise! If a golf cart is damaged while in your possession, you may be responsible for repair costs, depending on the rental agreement and your insurance coverage.
Here’s what to do if the unexpected happens:
- Stay calm! (No need to panic; we’ve seen it all!)
- Take photos of the damage.
- Call Just Beachy Golf Cart Rentals to report the issue.
- Check to see if your personal insurance offers coverage.
If you don’t have insurance covering damages, you could be responsible for repair costs.
How to Protect Yourself When Renting a Golf Cart
Want to have a worry-free experience? Follow these simple tips:
- Drive responsibly. Golf carts may be fun, but they still follow road rules.
- Follow local laws. Isle of Palms has specific rules on where you can and can’t drive.
- Read your rental agreement. Make sure you understand any damage policies before renting.
- Consider extra insurance. If your insurance doesn’t cover golf carts, consider a short-term plan.
Final Verdict: Do You Need Golf Cart Rental Insurance?
Having coverage gives you peace of mind and financial protection in case of an accident. Extra coverage can go a long way in avoiding unexpected costs and hassles during your trip.
Before renting, check with your insurance provider or ask our Just Beachy Golf Cart Rentals team about your options—because when it comes to vacation fun, it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Whether exploring the island, heading to the beach, or cruising to dinner, a golf cart rental makes your Isle of Palms vacation even more fun.
Book your Isle of Palms golf cart rental today for an easy, breezy way to explore the island. And if you’re gearing up for the perfect beach day, check out Just Beachy IOP’s beach gear rentals—we’ve got everything from chairs and tents to coolers, so you can make the most of your vacation.
