Tiger Woods’ golf cart could have become surprisingly complicated after his latest plea deal. The former champion faced a five-year driving ban that might extend beyond ordinary cars and trucks.
Woods reached the agreement after initially pleading not guilty to his DUI-related charges. The deal reduced the case to reckless driving and refusal to submit to a lawful test, but it came with strict conditions.
Tiger Woods could be barred from driving golf carts for five years
According to TMZ, Woods pleaded no contest and agreed not to drive a motor vehicle for five years. The judge also delivered a warning that left very little room for interpretation. “There are no exceptions. If you were to drive for any reason at all, you would go immediately back to jail,” the judge told Woods.
The deal also included a $1,500 fine. County Judge Darren Steele stressed that the restriction focused on public safety rather than convenience. “Sir, I want you to understand that five years of driving is for the safety of the public. There are no exceptions,” Steele said.
That created an unusual problem for Woods, whose golf carts have long been part of his practice routine. Florida State Attorney Thomas Bakkedahl said officials needed to determine whether Woods could legally drive one. “My gut reaction is no,” Bakkedahl told reporters, while acknowledging that he needed to review Florida law.
The question mattered because Florida classified certain golf carts as motor vehicles. State law defined them as vehicles designed for golf courses and recreational use. The law covered carts that could not exceed 20 miles per hour. Drivers also needed government-issued photo identification when using them on public roads.
Woods’ case began with a March 27 crash in Florida. His SUV hit a trailer being hauled by a truck, causing the vehicle to roll onto its side. Woods told police that he looked at his cellphone and adjusted the radio. Officers also reported that he appeared cooperative but sweated heavily.
An arrest affidavit alleged that Woods failed several field sobriety tests. Police also found two hydrocodone pills in his pocket. Woods mostly stayed quiet during Wednesday’s proceedings. His attorney, Doug Duncan, spoke for him and said the agreement provided closure.
“The ultimate decision was made to bring closure to the case and to allow Tiger and his family to move on with their lives,” Duncan told WPBF News.
Originally reported by Vanshika Vasundhare Singh for Mandatory
