DENVER — Pediatric golf cart injuries have steadily increased over the past three years, according to research presented during the American Academy of Pediatrics 2025 National Conference & Exhibition at the Colorado Convention Center from Sept. 26-30.
Researchers found that children under the age of 12 represented nearly half of all reports of pediatric golf cart injuries with a majority (53%) being white and an overwhelming majority (90%) being males.
Author Theodore Ganley, MD, FAAP of the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Orthopedic Center said as golf carts become more common the impact on children grows.
"The growing trend of golf cart use in residential areas, alongside the increased frequency of children driving and riding these vehicles, correlates with a concerning rise in both the number and variety of childhood golf cart injuries," Dr. Ganley said.
The most common injuries reported were superficial lacerations and abrasions caused by crashes or rollover incidents. Among younger children, injuries to the head, face, and neck were more common, while adolescents typically had injuries on the lower extremities.
Authors point to deficits in golf cart design that make the vehicles prone to accidents when making sharp turns, sudden stops, or while entering and exiting the vehicle. They also point out that safety guidelines should be in place to keep users safe.
"Our findings highlight the urgent need for increased awareness and attention to these injuries among children and demonstrate the crucial role of education on safe golf cart operation," Dr. Ganley said.
The authors received financial support for this research from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Orthopedic Center.
