Maryland Woman Dies After Being Ejected From Golf Cart, Police Say

Victim Was Riding In Back Seat Of Cart When It Rolled Over

A Maryland woman has died after being ejected from a golf cart, police said. The victim, 22-year-old Sarah J. Smith of Waldorf, was riding in the back seat of the golf cart when it rolled over on Three Notch Road near Mattawoman Beantown Road in Waldorf on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2023, at about 11:18 p.m., according to the Charles County Sheriff's Office.

Smith was taken to a hospital where she died from her injuries. The driver of the golf cart, 23-year-old William R. Jones of Waldorf, was not injured. Police said the golf cart was traveling westbound when the right rear tire went off the edge of the roadway, causing the cart to overturn. The crash is under investigation.

Golf Cart Safety

Golf carts are popular vehicles for use on golf courses and in retirement communities, but they can be dangerous if they are not operated safely. According to a study published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

Golf carts were involved in 15,000 crashes between 2007 and 2016.

These crashes resulted in 249 deaths and 17,000 injuries.

Most golf cart crashes occur on public roads.

Most golf cart crash victims are over the age of 60.

To safely operate a golf cart, it is important to:

Read and understand the owner's manual.

Never drive a golf cart on a public road unless it is street legal.

Always wear a seatbelt.

Never exceed the speed limit.

Never carry more passengers than the golf cart is designed for.

Never drive a golf cart under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of being involved in a golf cart crash.