...and let us tell you about the new moped laws

Low-speed vehicles– such as mopeds + golf carts– are popular in the Lowcountry among college students and beachgoers because of their low cost, high fuel efficiency, + small size. Why bother trying to lug around your cooler, beach chair, + umbrella when you can drive right up to the sand?

But, despite their convenience– golf carts + mopeds can be dangerous when sharing roads with trucks + cars. Over the past few years, there have been an increasing number of low-speed vehicle-related traffic incidents. South Carolina’s Department of Transportation has reported more than 200 fatalities involving mopeds + golf carts over the past seven years.

To help combat the safety concerns, new golf cart + moped regulations went into effect on Nov. 19.

Up until this point, law enforcement officers have been unable to properly enforce traffic laws on drivers of low-speed vehicles– including DUI violations– because they are not classified in the same category as regular cars + trucks.

The new bill, signed into law by Gov. Henry McMaster last year, seeks to address these issues by increasing safety measures + punishments for violations.

So, if you own a golf cart, moped, or both– you’ll want to make sure you now have the proper permits + are well-versed in the new regulations.

Golf cart laws

In order to operate a golf cart the driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license and proof of liability insurance.
Drivers must remain within a four-mile radius of their home– or the address the vehicle is registered under.
Golf carts can only be driven during daylight hours– between 5 a.m.- 6 p.m. during the winter + 5 a.m.- 8 p.m. during the summer.
Golf carts can only be driven on roadways with a speed limit of 35 mph or less.

What’s new?

The vehicle must be registered with the S.C. DMV and display a state permit decal.
Permits must be replaced every five years– or at the time the permit holder changes their address.
Violations of any golf cart regulation will be classified as a misdemeanor.
Drivers who break the laws can be fined up to $100 or up to 30 days in jail.

Moped laws

Drivers must have a valid moped operator’s license or driver’s license.
Drivers must remain at a speed of 35 mph or less.
Mopeds can only be driven on roadways with a speed limit of 55 mph or less.
Drivers must stay in the far right lane on roadways– unless making a left turn.
Vehicles must have operational brake lights, headlights, and at least one rearview mirror.
Mopeds should not be used to carry more than one rider– unless designed to.

What’s new?

Moped owners must register their vehicle with the S.C. DMV + display a state license plate.
You must be at least 15 years old to qualify for a moped license.
Drivers under 21 must wear a helmet when operating a moped.
Drivers who violate any regulation can be fined up to $200 or 30 days in jail.

Additionally, Golf cart + moped drivers are now subject to all state traffic laws. Meaning: drivers will be ticketed if they are caught speeding, ignoring street signs, driving under the influence, etc.

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Personally, I think golf carts + mopeds are a great way to get around… especially in a city where finding a good parking spot can be as exciting as winning on a scratch-off ticket.

What are your thoughts on the new regulations? Do you think they will help make our roads safer? Let us know in the comments below.

– Gaby + Justine