Installing golf cart seat belts is an inexpensive way to improve the safety of your golf cart.
One of the most common golf cart accidents occurs when the driver makes a sharp turn, or takes a turn too quickly, and ejects the the other passenger(s) from the cart, unintentionally, of course.
Now that may seem harmless, but because golf carts are small vehicles that are so close to the ground, a lot of people who are ejected do not have the time or the reflexivity to “land” safely, and the worst of these accidents can result in severe head or neck trauma, and even death.
But enough of the doom and gloom. The point is that safety belts are not expensive and are well worth the price of keeping you and your passengers safe – especially if your golf cart is modified with increased driving speed. Aside from the added safety, seat belts are usually required by law if you want your golf cart to be street legal.
Most seat belts on the market are referred to as “universal” seat belts which means that they are not manufactured specifically for golf carts, but are still able to be used with golf carts, among a host over other vehicles — so make sure that you read the installation instructions carefully so that you properly secure and mount them to your cart.
Seat belts can come in a variety of different colors, though black and gray are the most common. The lengths of the seat belts also vary, from about 60″ up to 110″ and their widths are normally about 2″.
Different types of golf cart seat belts:
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- 2 Point Seat Belts:
These are lap seat belts, they have no over the shoulder straps.
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- 3 Point Seat Belts:
These are like the seat belts in regular vehicles, with one over the shoulder strap.
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- 4 Point Seat Belts:
These seat belts have two straps that go over the shoulders and an additional lap belt.
Retractable Versus Non-Retractable
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- Retractable Seat Belts:
Retractable seat belts are nice because they keep the “belt” part out of the way when it’s not in use. These seat belts most commonly resemble the seat belts found in cars.
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- Non-Retractable Lap Seat Belt:
Non-retractable seat belts have to be adjusted to fit your passenger, usually with a simple pull of the belt.
Push Button Versus Lift Lever
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- Push Button Seat Belt:
These release the belt with the push of a button.
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- Lever Lift Non-Retractable Seat Belt:
These golf cart seat belts have a retro look and need to be pulled to accommodate the passenger. This style of seat belt is not retractable, and is similar to the seat belts used in airplanes.
Note: All seat belts need to be properly installed in order to work their best. Read the instructions carefully and if you have any questions, ask your reseller.