USE OF ELECTRIC GOLF CARTS AS ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORT FOR SENIOR CITIZENS, PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES, AND OTHERS

The purpose of this study was to examine the current use and potential for expanded use of electric golf carts (also called "electric buggies") by senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and others who cannot or do not wish to drive. Although originally designed to transport golfers and their equipment, electric golf carts and other neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) are becoming increasingly popular as alternative transportation in Sunbelt communities in the United States. These vehicles offer a low-cost, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional automobiles, particularly for local trips. Further, operation of a golf cart usually does not require possession of a driver's license, making them a viable option for persons who do not drive automobiles. The primary research method was a literature review, followed by interviews with golf cart vendors, community planners, and others. Interviews with individuals in communities identified as having integrated the use of NEVs on regular roads were conducted. Two brief case studies are included: Sun City Center, Florida (an age-restricted retirement community), and Palm Desert, California (a community that includes provisions for golf carts in its comprehensive community development plans). Preliminary results suggest that the use of golf carts and NEVs may be "setting the pace" by offering mobility for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, children, and others who cannot or do not wish to drive automobiles. Their use holds great promise for low density communities, where short trips along city streets and/or designated rights of way may be safely navigated using NEVs. At the same time, this study pointed out the need to more closely align practice and policy. Few local officials appear to be aware of golf cart regulations and most are unaware of safety considerations pertaining to their use. The success evident in Palm Desert suggests that with foresight and planning, communities may be able to offer their residents reduced air and noise pollution, enhanced mobility, and a safe transportation alternative.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/0646361546
• Corporate Authors:

  Indomed Proprietary Limited

  144 Norwood Street
  Leaderville, Western Australia  Australia  6007
• Authors:
  • Mathias, R G
  • Stoffle, B
• Conference:
  • 8th International Conference on Transport and Mobility for Elderly and Disabled People
  • Location: Perth , Australia
  • Date: 1998-9-0 to 1998-9-0
• Publication Date: 1998

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: References;
• Pagination: p. 249-257
• Monograph Title: SETTING THE PACE. 8TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON TRANSPORT AND MOBILITY FOR ELDERLY AND DISABLED PEOPLE, PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIA, SEPTEMBER 1998. 2 VOLS

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Aged; Conferences; Electric vehicles; Golf carts; Legislation; Mobility; Safety
• Identifier Terms: Transed
• Geographic Terms: United States
• Subject Areas: Energy; Highways; Law; Safety and Human Factors; Society;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00944805
• Record Type: Publication
• ISBN: 0-646-36154-6
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 7 2003 12:00AM