Utility Vehicles

Fort Lewis College Golf Cart Policy

The following procedure is required for all employees who operate golf carts on the Fort Lewis College campus.

  1. The driver is responsible for his/her safe driving and the behavior of any passengers.
  2. Drivers and passengers are required to keep their feet, legs and arms inside the vehicle.
  3. Check the vehicle prior to initial use. The checklist consists of the following items:
    • Steering: check for excessive play in the steering wheel
    • Brakes: check for parking brake; accelerate slowly and press brake. The vehicle should come to a quick, controlled stop. There should be no need to pump the brakes.
    • Test the horn (if equipped with one).
    • Look under the cart for leaks.
    • Check the tires for excessive wear or cracks.
    • Walk around the vehicle and check for any item that would impact the safety of the cart.
  4. When you park, remove the keys and keep them with you. Park only in designated areas, not in front of fire hydrants, building entrances or in emergency vehicle lanes.
  5. The speed limit on campus with no pedestrians is 10 m.p.h. The speed when passing bicyclists, skateboarders and pedestrians is 5 m.p.h.
  6. Secure all items being carried on the cart.
  7. Cart drivers will go through the attached checklist with a designated Physical Plant representative prior to driving a cart.

Golf Cart Pre-Use Inspection

  1. Steering: Check for excessive play in the steering wheel.
  2. Brakes: (1) check the parking brake, (2) accelerate slowly and press the brake. The vehicle should come to a quick, controlled stop. There should not be a need to pump the brakes.
  3. Test the horn (if equipped with one).
  4. Look under the vehicle and check for any leaks.
  5. Check the tires for excessive wear or cracks.
  6. Walk around the vehicle and check for any item that would impact the safety of the vehicle.

If problems are noted with any of the above, the vehicle will immediately be removed from service. Notify Physical Plant Services regarding a vehicle in need of repair.