Golf Cart Insurance
Protect your golf cart investment with comprehensive coverage—whether you use it on the course, in your community, or on public roads as a street-legal LSV.
Protect Your Golf Cart Today
Get affordable coverage tailored to how and where you use your cart.
Your Homeowners Policy May Not Cover Your Golf Cart
Many golf cart owners assume their homeowners insurance provides adequate coverage. In reality, most homeowners policies only cover golf carts used on your own property. Once you drive on golf courses, community streets, or public roads, you likely need a separate golf cart policy. Don't risk a coverage gap— especially for liability claims that could exceed $100,000.
What Is Golf Cart Insurance?
Golf cart insurance provides protection for your golf cart against damage, theft, and liability claims. Whether you own a standard golf cart for course use or a street-legal Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) for neighborhood transportation, proper insurance coverage helps protect your investment and personal assets.
Golf carts have evolved beyond the golf course. Today they're used in gated communities, retirement villages, campgrounds, farms, and even on public streets in many areas. As usage has expanded, so has the need for proper insurance coverage.
A dedicated golf cart policy typically provides broader coverage than the limited protection offered by homeowners insurance, including coverage for use away from your property, higher liability limits, and protection for custom modifications.
Common Uses Covered
- •Golf course use
- •Gated community transportation
- •Retirement community travel
- •Campground use
- •Farm and ranch transport
- •Street-legal LSV operation
- •Special events and parades
Golf Cart vs. Low Speed Vehicle (LSV)
Understanding the difference affects your insurance requirements:
Standard Golf Cart
- •Maximum speed: 15-20 mph
- •Designed for golf course use
- •No safety equipment required
- •Cannot be driven on public roads*
- •No registration required for private use
- •Insurance optional but recommended
*Some localities allow golf cart crossings at designated intersections
Low Speed Vehicle (LSV)
- •Maximum speed: 20-25 mph
- •Street-legal on roads ≤35 mph
- •Required: headlights, tail lights, turn signals
- •Required: mirrors, seat belts, windshield
- •Must be registered and titled in NY
- •Liability insurance required
LSVs must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS 500)
What Golf Cart Insurance Covers—and Common Exclusions
Typically Covered
- Liability Coverage
Bodily injury and property damage you cause to others while operating your golf cart.
- Collision Coverage
Damage to your cart from collisions with other vehicles, objects, or rollovers.
- Comprehensive Coverage
Theft, vandalism, fire, weather damage, and hitting animals.
- Medical Payments
Medical expenses for you and passengers injured in an accident.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist
Protection if hit by an uninsured driver (especially for street-legal LSVs).
- Custom Equipment
Coverage for aftermarket upgrades like lift kits, custom wheels, and sound systems.
Common Exclusions
- Intentional Damage
Damage you cause deliberately or through reckless behavior.
- Unlicensed Drivers
Accidents when operated by unlicensed drivers (for street-legal carts).
- Racing or Competition
Damage occurring during racing events or speed competitions.
- Commercial Use (on personal policy)
Using your cart for business purposes without commercial coverage.
- Mechanical Breakdown
Normal wear and tear or mechanical failures (separate warranty coverage).
- DUI/Impaired Operation
Accidents while operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Not Sure What Coverage You Need?
We'll help you find the right coverage for your golf cart and how you use it.
What Affects Golf Cart Insurance Costs?
Several factors influence your premium:
Factors That Increase Premiums
- ↑Higher cart value (custom or luxury models)
- ↑Street-legal LSV use
- ↑Higher coverage limits
- ↑Low deductibles
- ↑Custom modifications and accessories
- ↑Prior claims history
Ways to Reduce Premiums
- ↓Higher deductibles
- ↓Bundle with home or auto insurance
- ↓Install anti-theft devices
- ↓Complete safety courses
- ↓Store in locked garage
- ↓Clean driving record
Golf Cart Theft Prevention Tips
Golf carts are frequent targets for theft. Protect your investment with these measures:
Physical Security
- ✓Store in locked garage when possible
- ✓Use steering wheel lock or club
- ✓Install pedal lock device
- ✓Chain to fixed object when parked
Electronic Security
- ✓Install kill switch
- ✓Add GPS tracking device
- ✓Install audible alarm system
- ✓Use key fob/remote start
Documentation
- ✓Record serial numbers
- ✓Take photos of cart and VIN
- ✓Keep purchase receipts
- ✓Register with local police
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Cart Insurance
Does my homeowners insurance cover my golf cart?
Homeowners insurance typically provides limited coverage for golf carts used only on your property. Once you take your golf cart on public roads, golf courses, or in gated communities, a separate golf cart policy is usually required for proper protection.
Do I need insurance for a golf cart in New York?
If your golf cart is registered as a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) for road use in New York, you must carry minimum liability insurance. For golf course or private property use only, insurance is not legally required but is highly recommended.
What is the difference between a golf cart and an LSV?
A standard golf cart has a maximum speed of 15-20 mph and is designed for golf courses. A Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) can travel 20-25 mph, has safety features like headlights, turn signals, and seat belts, and can be registered for road use on streets with posted speeds of 35 mph or less.
Does golf cart insurance cover theft?
Yes, comprehensive coverage on a golf cart policy covers theft, vandalism, fire, and weather damage. This is important because golf carts are frequently stolen—they are easy targets due to minimal security features and high resale value for parts.
Can I add my golf cart to my auto insurance policy?
Some auto insurers offer golf cart endorsements, especially for street-legal LSVs. However, many prefer standalone golf cart policies for comprehensive coverage. Contact us to compare options and find the most cost-effective solution for your situation.
Related Coverage Options
Protect all your recreational vehicles and personal assets:
Important Information
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice. Golf cart insurance coverage features, exclusions, and availability may vary by state and insurance carrier.
All coverage is subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions. Please review your policy carefully and consult with a licensed insurance professional to determine appropriate coverage for your specific situation.
The Steele Agency is licensed to conduct business in New York State. License information available upon request or at the New York Department of Financial Services website.
Get Golf Cart Insurance Today
Protect your golf cart investment with comprehensive coverage tailored to your needs. Get a quote in minutes.
Our Golf Cart Insurance Services Include:
- ✓ Coverage for standard golf carts and street-legal LSVs
- ✓ Protection for custom modifications and accessories
- ✓ Competitive rates from multiple carriers
- ✓ Easy claims process when you need it
- ✓ Bundle discounts with home or auto policies
Serving New York golf cart owners since 1969 • Free quotes • Fast coverage
