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Rise in Golf-Cart Injuries Among Children and Teens

Recent research from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has highlighted a troubling trend: a significant increase in golf-cart injuries among children and adolescents over the past decade. The findings, to be presented at the 2025 American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference, underscore the urgent need for enhanced education and safety protocols regarding golf-cart operation for the younger population.

The Facts Behind the Injuries

According to the study conducted by researchers in CHOP's Division of Orthopedics, golf carts have increasingly become accessible in residential neighborhoods, leading to more children and teens riding and operating these vehicles. Alarmingly, more than 25% of pediatric golf-cart injuries have been classified as severe. Most incidents involving teenagers often arise from collisions and rollovers, suggesting an immediate demand for age-appropriate safety measures.

Dr. Theodore J. Ganley, the lead author of the study, emphasizes that golf carts should not be regarded as toys. Instead, they are to be treated as vehicles that navigate real roads. This misconception can lead young passengers to overlook safety guidelines crucial for preventing serious injuries or possibly fatal accidents.

The retrospective study analyzed data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) concerning golf-cart-related injuries in individuals 22 years old and younger from 2010 to 2023. Findings revealed that nearly half of the injuries involved children under the age of 12, predominantly affecting white males. The most common injuries reported included superficial lacerations and abrasions, primarily resulting from crashes, collisions, or cart rollovers. Furthermore, falls or ejections accounted for nearly 50% of these injuries, impacting mainly the head, face, and neck.

Understanding the Risks

The data reveals that incidents of falls or ejections occurred more frequently in children at 55%, compared to 42% in adolescents and 46% in young adults. Driving-related challenges such as sharp turns and sudden stops significantly contributed to the risk of falls. Moreover, while superficial injuries affected males slightly more (51%) than females (44%), the fracture rates remained similar across both genders.

Adolescents faced a higher risk for accidents involving collisions and rollovers, reinforcing the importance of implementing stricter safety regulations. Children, on the other hand, were more likely to sustain injuries from ejections or falls due to the operational challenges associated with golf carts.

Recommendations for Enhanced Safety

To mitigate these risks, researchers assert that parents should restrict golf-cart use to essential scenarios, strictly adhering to local speed limits and regulations. It is equally vital to educate young passengers about appropriate safety measures while riding in a golf cart. Furthermore, ensuring that all golf carts are fitted with suitable safety features and maintained thoroughly will be essential in reducing the likelihood of accidents or injuries.

This research project was made possible through funding from CHOP's Orthopedic Center. The detailed findings will be further elaborated upon during the session, titled "Rides and Risks: Pediatric Golf-Cart Related Injuries Presenting to the Emergency Department," at the upcoming conference in Denver.

A Commitment to Child Safety

Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia has long been a pioneer in pediatric health care, established back in 1855. Their ongoing commitment to exceptional patient care, training pediatric healthcare professionals, and conducting groundbreaking research has led to significant advancements in child safety and wellness. This research on golf-cart safety is just one example of how CHOP aims to better protect the younger generation.

For further inquiries, please contact Ashley Moore at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.