Pasadena Hills, Fla. – A serious traffic accident involving a golf cart and a passenger car occurred shortly before 8:30 p.m. on Friday at the busy intersection of Overpass Road and Watergrass Parkway near Wesley Chapel. Florida Highway Patrol troopers reported that the collision left two teenagers with serious injuries and two other youths with minor injuries.
What happened
According to the FHP report, a 14‑year‑old girl from Wesley Chapel was operating a golf cart eastbound in the left‑turn lane on Overpass Road. As she approached the intersection, she attempted to turn left onto northbound Watergrass Parkway while a flashing yellow left‑turn arrow was displayed. At the same time, a 38‑year‑old man from Wesley Chapel was driving a Nissan sedan westbound on Overrun Road.
The golf cart entered the path of the Nissan, and the two vehicles struck each other. The impact was severe enough to eject all four occupants from the golf cart. Troopers said the crash caused the golf cart to be thrown into the roadway, striking the sedan and then rolling onto the pavement.
Injuries and medical response
The 14‑year‑old driver sustained serious injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. A 15‑year‑old girl from Odessa who was riding as a passenger also suffered serious injuries and was transported to the same facility for care. Two additional passengers, both 13‑year‑old boys from Wesley Chapel, incurred minor injuries; they were evaluated at the scene and did not require hospital transport.
The FHP report did not specify whether the Nissan driver was injured. Emergency responders arrived quickly, secured the scene, and cleared the intersection after ensuring all victims received appropriate medical attention.
Community impact
Wesley Chapel residents expressed concern over the safety of golf carts on public roadways, especially at intersections with high traffic volume. Local officials have previously reminded drivers that golf carts are limited to private roads or designated low‑speed areas unless they meet specific state requirements for road use.
Parents of the injured teens are urging the community to reinforce safe driving practices for young people, regardless of vehicle type. The incident underscores the importance of adhering to traffic signals and using proper turn lanes, particularly for vehicles that may not have the same protective features as standard automobiles.
Investigation
Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate the crash. Troopers are reviewing dash‑cam footage, witness statements, and the condition of the intersection’s signaling equipment. No charges have been announced at this time, but the investigation will determine whether any traffic violations contributed to the collision.
Authorities encourage anyone with additional information about the crash to contact the Pasco County FHP office.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
