Owning a go-kart is lovely and it is fun racing with them. Before you get a go-kart, ask certain questions about how can you drive it?
Ask where you can drive a go-kart? What are the rules behind driving a go-kart? Can I be allowed to drive my go-kart anywhere I like? What are the safety tips for driving a go-kart?.
Don’t just buy a go-kart without getting the necessary information needed. Although you are allowed to drive a go-kart from a young age, you are not allowed to drive it everywhere. This will prompt the question: Can you drive a Go kart on the sidewalk?
You cannot drive a go-kart on the sidewalk because it is illegal and is punishable by law if you are caught driving it on the sidewalk. Go-karts are to be driven in specific places such as private properties, race tracks, dirt tracks, etc.
Who Can Drive a Go-kart?
The beautiful thing about driving a go-kart is, that it cuts across all ages. Children can drive if taught, adults can also drive it, and females can also drive it.
From age 5 and above karting is allowed. But for a minor, you need to have an adult with you in the go-kart. Anybody can drive a kart for as long as you can drive it and keep practicing it.
Can You Drive a Go Kart on the Sidewalk?
No, it’s illegal to drive a go-kart on the sidewalk. In case you are thinking that the sidewalk is a good place to drive a go-kart since it’s just a place for pedestrians and bicycles and it is wide enough to contain a go-kart, the answer to your thoughts is No, you aren’t allowed to drive a go-kart on the sidewalks.
The more reason you shouldn’t even drive on a sidewalk is that people are walking or riding their bicycles. The question is: do you want to get someone injured? If your answer is no, don’t drive your go-kart on the sidewalk.
Sidewalks are meant for people to walk; it’s not created for go-karts. Your go-kart will be impounded if you are found riding it on the sidewalk.
What Will Happen if You Drive a Go-kart on the Sidewalk?
Driving go-Karts on sidewalks is illegal in all states because it is unsafe. If you decide to break the rule by driving your go-kart on the sidewalk in your neighborhood, you will surely be stopped by the police. They will question you. Even if you have a driving license, you will still be apprehended.
Penalties for Driving Go-kart on the Sidewalk
The penalties for driving a go-kart on the sidewalk vary. The penalties include:
Paying of Fines
When you are apprehended by the police, you will be ticketed and asked to pay a fine. The fine varies from area to area.
Your Go Kart Would be Impounded
Apart from paying a fine when you are stopped, your go-kart would be seized. In order not to lose your go-kart, try to avoid driving it on the sidewalk. The last thing you want is the police to impound your go-kart. The stress to get it out might be overwhelming for you.
Jail Term
This is possible when you cause an accident on the sidewalk injuring people. You will be arrested for breaking the law and causing injuries to people.
Go-karts Driving Rules You must Follow
Rules are put in place to ensure safety. Whenever you see rules and regulations, just know that it’s for your safety. Don’t ignore rules. Driving a go-kart involves following rules. Rules to follow while driving a go-kart are;
Obey Marshals
Observe and obey marshals. They are there to keep things running smoothly. They ensure that there is clean racing.
Put on a Helmet
There should be no racing without a helmet. The head is very fragile and 12 percent of racing injuries are on the head or neck. If you put on a good helmet it will serve as your head protector.
The head is very delicate; any little injury can damage the brain. Buy a good helmet that can also protect your face.
Put on Neck Braces
Wear neck braces that fit perfectly, and also make sure it doesn’t hinder you from breathing well. Test the neck braces before racing to know how you feel putting them on to know if it’s not restricting your breathing.
Ensure Your Equipment is in Perfect Shape
Before you race, ensure your equipment are in perfect shape, check your go-kart and the tires, and check if you don’t have a leaking gas. Ensure your kart is well serviced before driving it.
Ensure that belt and chain aren’t broken or else it can ruin your race. Be 100 percent sure your equipment is in good shape.
Put On Seat Belt
If you wear your seat belt while driving a normal vehicle, why then would you neglect using a seat belt in your go-kart? You should also ensure you make use of your seat belt while driving a go-kart.
Ensure Your Health is OK
All drivers must be in good health. When you are sick, you won’t be allowed to race. Also, you shouldn’t be under the influence of drugs. Drugs are not allowed in racing.
Drivers should put on closed-toe shoes, possess a driver’s license, and be comfortable fitting and operating the Go-kart. Don’t go to race tracks when you have a running stomach to avoid stories that touch.
Where to Drive Your Go-kart without Getting into Trouble?
Places you can drive your go-kart without getting into trouble of paying a fine and getting your go-kart impounded are an outdoor karting track, an indoor karting track, your private property, or a Dirt track.
Go-karts are recreational vehicles; they must stay off public roads and premises. You should only be driving your go-kart on a race track or on designated trails.
Final Thoughts
One good thing about driving a go-kart is that regular go-karting can help to improve strength and stamina, especially if it’s combined with activities like warm-up exercises at home.
The biceps and triceps in the arms get a workout during the activity which in turn helps to strengthen and tone muscles. The endurance nature of the race is what helps to improve your stamina.