Lakeshore residents will soon see golf carts sharing the road with automobiles.
After Lakeshore Council approved a pilot project on golf carts in the Lighthouse Cove area last month, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have weighed in on the rights and responsibilities.
Residents may begin using golf carts in Lighthouse Cove on April 1.
"The OPP would like to remind motorists that operating golf cars on the road must be done so in a safe and responsible manner," said OPP Constable Chris Ciliska. "A golf car is still considered a motor vehicle under the Criminal Code of Canada, and laws governing impaired driving will be enforced."
Residents wishing to drive a golf cart in Lighthouse Cove must first obtain an annual permit, which is available from the Municipality. Before a permit will be granted, though, golf carts must abide by a series of guidelines.
Proper safety equipment must be installed, including a steering wheel, service brakes and lights; parking or emergency brakes, rearview mirror, horn, daytime running lights, turn signals, reflectors, and tires in good condition.
Drivers may only operate the vehicles between April 1 and November 30. Golf carts may only be driven on roads with a maximum speed limit of 50 kilometres per hour and be equipped with a slow-vehicle sign on the rear.
Golf cart users may only use the right-most traffic lane. Children under eight may not ride as passengers.
The program is a ten-year pilot initiative from the Ontario Ministry of Transportation.
Complete information about golf carts in Lighthouse Cove is available on the Municipality of Lakeshore's official website.