Golf cart incident in Lake Almanor highlights dangers of driving under the influence

On September 14, 2024, at approximately 3:15 a.m., a drunk driving incident involving a golf cart occurred on Lake Almanor West Drive near Long Iron Drive. This shows that drunk driving can happen in any situation – even with a golf cart. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that Riley Silveira, 23, of San Francisco, was driving a two-seat Club Car golf cart westbound at the time of the accident. Silveira was traveling in the cart with four other passengers at the time of the accident.

According to CHP, Silveira made a left turn, causing the right rear passenger, Cassidy Cushing, 23, of Martinez, to be ejected from the vehicle. Cushing suffered serious injuries and was taken to Enloe Medical Center for treatment. Fortunately, the other passengers, including Joseph Disanto, Chloe Berg and Lena Heaney – all of the San Francisco Bay Area – did not suffer any injuries.

Silveira was arrested at the scene for driving under the influence, reinforcing the CHP's statement that DUI laws apply to all motor vehicles, including golf carts. The incident is a stark reminder that driving under the influence can pose serious risks in any vehicle, regardless of size or speed.

Authorities urge the public to avoid driving while under the influence of alcohol, as the consequences can be serious and life-threatening, even in seemingly low-risk situations, such as driving a golf cart.

Photo by Frames For Your Heart on Unsplash