Pinehurst officials are considering several ways to improve golf cart safety on village streets, including stronger public education, safer crossings and increased use of seatbelts.
The Village Council discussed the issue Tuesday as the community continues to process a fatal September collision involving a golf cart. Village Manager Doug Willardson acknowledged the timing of the discussion but said it was not initiated in direct response to that incident.
September Collision Remains Under Investigation
The September 17 collision happened shortly before 8 a.m. at the intersection of N.C. 5 and Shaw Road.
Authorities identified the golf cart passenger as 64-year-old Brenda Sural. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Her husband, 66-year-old Steven Sural, was operating the cart and was airlifted to a hospital with serious injuries.
The investigation remains underway, and a final police report had not been completed when the council held its discussion. Officials have not announced a final determination concerning the circumstances or cause of the collision.
Safety Campaign Among Staff Recommendations
Village staff recommended strengthening the safety information provided with golf cart registration materials. The revised information could more clearly explain that golf carts do not provide occupants with the same level of protection as passenger vehicles.
Officials also discussed launching a public-safety campaign focused on golf cart operation and continuing enforcement of the village’s existing ordinance requirements.
Approximately 1,900 golf carts are registered in Pinehurst, according to information presented to the council. Village staff estimates that about 1,500 of those carts are currently in operation.
Crossings and Seatbelts Discussed
Other possibilities raised during the meeting included improving golf cart crossings and encouraging owners to add seatbelts. Council members did not approve any ordinance revisions, construction projects or new equipment requirements during the discussion.
The council instead agreed to place golf cart safety on a future agenda for additional review. That process could allow members to consider specific policy changes, costs and enforcement questions before taking formal action.
Golf carts remain an important part of daily life and tourism in Pinehurst. Council members indicated that the village’s goal will be to preserve that tradition while identifying practical steps that could reduce risks for cart occupants and other motorists.
North Carolina Department of Transportation officials have previously said golf carts are treated as vehicles, while municipalities have authority to establish more specific local rules governing their operation.
Read more at the original source: The Pilot.
