Use Ya Blinkah!!

[Sueclark]

While walking out and about in our neighborhood myself and also with my dogs, I cannot believe the discourteous, rude drivers who do not use their directional signals at intersections, and also just blow through stop signs, without even slowing down. This was a major topic of discussion up in New England last year, so all the electric signs on the Mass. Pike had a message which read "Use Ya Blinkah!" I even use, maybe overuse, my blinker around the rotaries so people know where I am going, no guessing games! Takes a second to flick the lever. Maybe some of the speed limit machines along Buena Vista, Morse 466, 441, etc. can have that message added. Thoughts??

[JRichm369]

Most of these people have been driving for miles with their blinkers on and have simply ran out of turning fluid.

[Happinow]

I often walk and when I see cars pulling out of roads or venues like rec centers they don't use directionals, making it very difficult for pedestrians to know where to walk and what to avoid. If I see that a car wants to turn and I'm in the way I quickly move but with no directional I don't know which way to walk to avoid them. Using your signal would sure be appreciated, not only as your fellow drivers but as a pedestrian as well.

[Phanatic Luvr]

While walking out and about in our neighborhood myself and also with my dogs, I cannot believe the discourteous, rude drivers who do not use their directional signals at intersections, and also just blow through stop signs, without even slowing down. This was a major topic of discussion up in New England last year, so all the electric signs on the Mass. Pike had a message which read "Use Ya Blinkah!" I even use, maybe overuse, my blinker around the rotaries so people know where I am going, no guessing games! Takes a second to flick the lever. Maybe some of the speed limit machines along Buena Vista, Morse 466, 441, etc. can have that message added. Thoughts??

And let's add ... this mean ALL forms of transportation. I drive ALOT in TV's and I am always amazed by the lack of concern some driver's, including cars, carts, and bikes have for their fellow Villagers. Be careful out there, this thread won't change a thing.

[Marlo]

47256

[Barefoot]

While walking out and about in our neighborhood myself and also with my dogs, I cannot believe the discourteous, rude drivers who do not use their directional signals at intersections, and also just blow through stop signs, without even slowing down. This was a major topic of discussion up in New England last year, so all the electric signs on the Mass. Pike had a message which read "Use Ya Blinkah!" I even use, maybe overuse, my blinker around the rotaries so people know where I am going, no guessing games! Takes a second to flick the lever. Maybe some of the speed limit machines along Buena Vista, Morse 466, 441, etc. can have that message added. Thoughts??

I agree it's a problem.
Especially when a golf cart driver uses his blinker once and then leaves it on for the next hour!
A letter to the Editor in the Daily Sun, and also one in the online newspaper, would reach more residents.

[Walter123]

Just assume everyone is out to get you and never, never trust someone's blinker, especially around here. Drive very defensively and pay close attention to your surroundings.

[tedquick]

I do my best to drive as if everyone near me is an accident waiting to happen. As Walter says, "drive defensively". As sad as it may be, that really is the only way that we can protect ourselves.

[Suzi]

In addition to all the above, I find the blinkers on the golf carts inadequate in size. They are VERY hard to see especially in bright sunlight. Does someone know if larger, bolder blinker lights are available?

[Walter123]

I do my best to drive as if everyone near me is an accident waiting to happen. As Walter says, "drive defensively". As sad as it may be, that really is the only way that we can protect ourselves.

:agree:

[Walter123]

In addition to all the above, I find the blinkers on the golf carts inadequate in size. They are VERY hard to see especially in bright sunlight. Does someone know if larger, bolder blinker lights are available?

Yeah, the newer carts have LED blinkers and in the rear some have an additional set on the roof and some also have them in the cockpit at eye level to remind the driver that they are on. I know I don't always here the beep, beep, beep if I'm listening to my MP3 through speakers. DON'T EVER USE HEADPHONES!!!

[memason]

Yeah, the newer carts have LED blinkers and in the rear some have an additional set on the roof and some also have them in the cockpit at eye level to remind the driver that they are on. I know I don't always here the beep, beep, beep if I'm listening to my MP3 through speakers. DON'T EVER USE HEADPHONES!!!

I ALWAYS use headphones....but, I don't stick my arm out to turn like it's 1950... I used those new fangled things called electronic turn signals... :laugh:

[outlaw]

In addition to all the above, I find the blinkers on the golf carts inadequate in size. They are VERY hard to see especially in bright sunlight. Does someone know if larger, bolder blinker lights are available?

Try Carts and clubs in Ocala. They install LED blinkers on the windshield vertical support inside and out. It provides a better view for others to see, and it reminds the driver that his/her blinker is on.

[saratogaman]

I have a neighbor who refuses to use her turn signals: "I don't want people to know where I'm going."
Try to reason with that!

[graciegirl]

Oye. Eight more weeks.

[Uberschaf]

The LED man at Markets at Marion sells 12"Led's with adhesive backing for $8.00 a pair EZ to wire.Just don't get blue.

[ditka41]

As they say, and ignorant drivers prove here daily: "Ya just can' fix stupid!"

[DonH57]

In addition to all the above, I find the blinkers on the golf carts inadequate in size. They are VERY hard to see especially in bright sunlight. Does someone know if larger, bolder blinker lights are available?

The blinkers on the yesteryear carts aren't any bigger than a dime and in bright sunlight are very, very hard to see.

[Walter123]

I ALWAYS use headphones....but, I don't stick my arm out to turn like it's 1950... I used those new fangled things called electronic turn signals... :laugh:

It's illegal to use headphones while operating a motor vehicle in Florida and I might add, a stupid thing to do. I don't think I need to explain why.

Chapter 316 Section 304 - 2012 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate (http://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2012/316.304)

[Walter123]

Oye. Eight more weeks.

For what?

[Golf View]

I agree it's a problem.
Especially when a golf cart driver uses his blinker once and then leaves it on for the next hour!
A letter to the Editor in the Daily Sun, and also one in the online newspaper, would reach more residents.

The only thing I know for sure when the turn signal blinker is on is that the turn signal blinker is on. You must drive defensively. Assume nothing.

[Barefoot]

I have a neighbor who refuses to use her turn signals: "I don't want people to know where I'm going."
Try to reason with that!

That is funny and sad and misguided, all at the same time. :ohdear:

[Barefoot]

Oye. Eight more weeks.

GG, I don't think it's a problem caused solely by snowbirds.
I bet it happens all year long.

[graciegirl]

GG, I don't think it's a problem caused solely by snowbirds.
I bet it happens all year long.

THIS is the most crowded time of the year. I don't think it is caused by snowbirds...just congestion makes it worse. I was going to try to spell exaserbates..but don't know how.

PLUS, I just wanted to use the word OYE. We Catholic girls don't get a chance to use it much.

I miss you Ruthie.

[kansasr]

In addition to all the above, I find the blinkers on the golf carts inadequate in size. They are VERY hard to see especially in bright sunlight. Does someone know if larger, bolder blinker lights are available?

Or my particular favorite, the golf towel flapping in the back, covering the turn signal!

[tomwed]

My dad never had a problem turning on the blinker. The problem was turning it off. I'll be there soon.

[jebartle]

Guess we will have to invest in the "new lights", the ole boy disconnected the noisy turn signal, so this ole girl forgets, which is just as bad as no blinka!:cus:

[villagetinker]

In addition to all the above, I find the blinkers on the golf carts inadequate in size. They are VERY hard to see especially in bright sunlight. Does someone know if larger, bolder blinker lights are available?

I AGREE, I cannot tell you the number of times I see a golf cart getting ready to turn LEFT and do not see the signal until after I pass, in my rearview mirror.

I bought yellow strip LEDS at the automotive store, and installed these with the supplied double stick tape, horizontally below the headlight. These are much more visible. This is a relatively easy installation, as the turn signal wires are right there for splicing.

[villagetinker]

Guess we will have to invest in the "new lights", the ole boy disconnected the noisy turn signal, so this ole girl forgets, which is just as bad as no blinka!:cus:

You can purchase strip LED lights at the automotive store, and connect where the "noisy turn signal" was connected, and mount where you will see it while driving. This will probably be my next project.

[Bizdoc]

When you move about The Villages (by car, cart, bike, rocket, plane, baby buggy, on foot, etc) always assume that everyone is trying to kill you. This includes the trucks, cars, carts, bikes, pedestrians, baby buggies, dogs, gators, wild boars, cats, wild cats, birds and love bugs. Follow that simple rule and you may live until it is time to bury you.

[Suzi]

On my wish list, I have another seatbelt (we have the passenger one already) and turn signal that makes noise - I see it fine but forget to turn it off when I am watching the road so a "noise maker" will help. Now I will add to my list a strip of LED lights to my turn-signals because the regular light is so small. I wish everybody would have brighter turn signals because, unless its in the evening, its so hard to see what other people are doing.

[mm1717]

I'm with ya on that one !!!! being from Wista Ma !!! Ha Ha

[JoMar]

Had liquid lights install LED's horizontally on the front and side of the cart and around the mirrors so hopefully I can be seen and I can see the indicators around the mirrors.

[Colts Fan]

I ALWAYS use headphones....but, I don't stick my arm out to turn like it's 1950... I used those new fangled things called electronic turn signals... :laugh:

Probably because I'm still relatively new, but the hand signals some use when approaching a merge I find helpful. Just one more way to try to alert the auto driver of the merge.

[Chazz]

I ALWAYS use headphones....but, I don't stick my arm out to turn like it's 1950... I used those new fangled things called electronic turn signals... :laugh:

Is it only me, or are some of the blinkers on golf carts so dim that they are barely visible in the daylight? If so, a little bit of 1950's arm signaling couldn't hurt.

[Chazz]

When you move about The Villages (by car, cart, bike, rocket, plane, baby buggy, on foot, etc) always assume that everyone is trying to kill you. This includes the trucks, cars, carts, bikes, pedestrians, baby buggies, dogs, gators, wild boars, cats, wild cats, birds and love bugs. Follow that simple rule and you may live until it is time to bury you.

Good post!

[dbussone]

Probably because I'm still relatively new, but the hand signals some use when approaching a merge I find helpful. Just one more way to try to alert the auto driver of the merge.

I agree. Most arms are larger than turn signals. I need every break I can get. Golf cart vs auto is never a good outcome.

[memason]

Probably because I'm still relatively new, but the hand signals some use when approaching a merge I find helpful. Just one more way to try to alert the auto driver of the merge.

I agree....hand signals that are in addition to electronic is helpful during daylight hours, but hand signals should not be the only signal given.

Too often, I see folks using hand signals at night, rather than the electronic...

[Rango]

I'm too occupied entering info. in my GPS, texting , answering cell, loading cd player and putting a movie in the DVD, to use my turn signals.

[gap2415]

Long ago I was a snowbird and noticed the lack of using signals when I first came down here...
Later, I noticed, the lack of this and that of the youth....then I realized I sounded just like my mother did!! When I was much younger
"Oh, why can't they be like we were, perfect in every way...."

[Serenoa]

Most of these people have been driving for miles with their blinkers on and have simply ran out of turning fluid.

and when I replace my blinker fluid I go with synthetic, not the cheap stuff.

http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag292/04C5/blinker%20fluid_zpsomqwh95z.jpg (http://s1371.photobucket.com/user/04C5/media/blinker%20fluid_zpsomqwh95z.jpg.html)

[kcrazorbackfan]

and when I replace my blinker fluid I go with synthetic, not the cheap stuff.

http://i1371.photobucket.com/albums/ag292/04C5/blinker%20fluid_zpsomqwh95z.jpg (http://s1371.photobucket.com/user/04C5/media/blinker%20fluid_zpsomqwh95z.jpg.html)

:clap2::clap2:

[Warren Kiefer]

While walking out and about in our neighborhood myself and also with my dogs, I cannot believe the discourteous, rude drivers who do not use their directional signals at intersections, and also just blow through stop signs, without even slowing down. This was a major topic of discussion up in New England last year, so all the electric signs on the Mass. Pike had a message which read "Use Ya Blinkah!" I even use, maybe overuse, my blinker around the rotaries so people know where I am going, no guessing games! Takes a second to flick the lever. Maybe some of the speed limit machines along Buena Vista, Morse 466, 441, etc. can have that message added. Thoughts??

The circles are the worse ever. Traffic would move so much more smoothly if drivers would use their turn signals to indicate their intentions. I have no doubt when I say that 75% of the drivers never use their turn signal in the circles.

[tommy steam]

In addition to all the above, I find the blinkers on the golf carts inadequate in size. They are VERY hard to see especially in bright sunlight. Does someone know if larger, bolder blinker lights are available?

A company called Liquid Lights here in the villages will install on the front of your cart. LED bright white daytime running lights with an Amber switch back. When you use your directionals the LED Amber will flash. They are about 18 in long and can be mounted on the front below or above your headlights. Around 120 or so installed at your house. They have a website with all the info.

[Chazz]

The circles are the worse ever. Traffic would move so much more smoothly if drivers would use their turn signals to indicate their intentions. I have no doubt when I say that 75% of the drivers never use their turn signal in the circles.

Warren, you are absolutely right! Most of the drivers who don't signal in the circles are, also, victimized by other drivers who do it to them. For safety's sake, and expediting traffic, we should all be as predictable as possible.

I think your estimate, based on my anecdotal observations, is highly understated. I believe the actual percentage is over 90%.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Someone told me the last time I was there that people in the left lane in round-a-bouts have priority, is that correct? If so, that means if they enter the r.a.b. in the left lane, they could turn across a vehicle in the right lane and not be at fault if there is a wreck? Hmmm.

[Mikeod]

Someone told me the last time I was there that people in the left lane in round-a-bouts have priority, is that correct? If so, that means if they enter the r.a.b. in the left lane, they could turn across a vehicle in the right lane and not be at fault if there is a wreck? Hmmm.

Sounds like someone bringing a local rule from their previous location to TV. The left lane has no priority. Occupying the left lane only means that they can proceed straight, go 3/4 around to accomplish essentially a left turn or go all the way around to accomplish a U turn. Right lane can only make a right turn or go straight.

The only "priority" I can think of for the left lane is that right lane drivers should not block them from exiting at their proper exit by driving up beside them within the roundabout. Always stagger.

[dbussone]

Sounds like someone bringing a local rule from their previous location to TV. The left lane has no priority. Occupying the left lane only means that they can proceed straight, go 3/4 around to accomplish essentially a left turn or go all the way around to accomplish a U turn. Right lane can only make a right turn or go straight.

The only "priority" I can think of for the left lane is that right lane drivers should not block them from exiting at their proper exit by driving up beside them within the roundabout. Always stagger.

Mike - that's the best explanation of how to use a rotary that I've seen on TOTV. Concise and accurate.

[Chazz]

Sounds like someone bringing a local rule from their previous location to TV. The left lane has no priority. Occupying the left lane only means that they can proceed straight, go 3/4 around to accomplish essentially a left turn or go all the way around to accomplish a U turn. Right lane can only make a right turn or go straight.

The only "priority" I can think of for the left lane is that right lane drivers should not block them from exiting at their proper exit by driving up beside them within the roundabout. Always stagger.

Thank you, Mike!

[Madelaine Amee]

Sounds like someone bringing a local rule from their previous location to TV. The left lane has no priority. Occupying the left lane only means that they can proceed straight, go 3/4 around to accomplish essentially a left turn or go all the way around to accomplish a U turn. Right lane can only make a right turn or go straight.

The only "priority" I can think of for the left lane is that right lane drivers should not block them from exiting at their proper exit by driving up beside them within the roundabout. Always stagger.

I find that the right lane drivers are usually scared stiff to even be in the circle and that is why they hug the outside right lane ............... they are the ones that scare the heck out of me.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Sounds like someone bringing a local rule from their previous location to TV. The left lane has no priority. Occupying the left lane only means that they can proceed straight, go 3/4 around to accomplish essentially a left turn or go all the way around to accomplish a U turn. Right lane can only make a right turn or go straight.

The only "priority" I can think of for the left lane is that right lane drivers should not block them from exiting at their proper exit by driving up beside them within the roundabout. Always stagger.

I thought it sounded like a bunch of crap, but, there's a lot to learn when I get there about fact and fiction. 😳

[Warren Kiefer]

Someone told me the last time I was there that people in the left lane in round-a-bouts have priority, is that correct? If so, that means if they enter the r.a.b. in the left lane, they could turn across a vehicle in the right lane and not be at fault if there is a wreck? Hmmm.

That is my understanding of the correct way to drive the circles, BUT I totally disagree with this rule. To me it is no different that driving down the four lane 441/27 in the inside (left) lane and quickly making a right turn in front of the traffic in the outside lane. And of course just as it is now, never using a turn signal.

[Warren Kiefer]

warren, you are absolutely right! Most of the drivers who don't signal in the circles are, also, victimized by other drivers who do it to them. For safety's sake, and expediting traffic, we should all be as predictable as possible.

I think your estimate, based on my anecdotal observations, is highly understated. I believe the actual percentage is over 90%.

i happened to be in the area of the glenview circle this morning.
Chazz you were right on the mark. I viewed the circle from the Savannah parking lot and was able to do a traffic count of over half of the circle. My findings... Of 137 vehicles in less than 30 minutes, , only 7 used their turn signals to indicate their intentions. Unreal huh ?? I am astounded and totally confused why drivers don't use turn signals.

[Mikeod]

i happened to be in the area of the glenview circle this morning.
Chazz you were right on the mark. I viewed the circle from the Savannah parking lot and was able to do a traffic count of over half of the circle. My findings... Of 137 vehicles in less than 30 minutes, , only 7 used their turn signals to indicate their intentions. Unreal huh ?? I am astounded and totally confused why drivers don't use turn signals.
Yes, and I was one of them! Going north on BV and in the RAB getting ready to indicate to those southbound on BV that I was leaving the RAB to continue north. But a red car coming east on El Camino came racing up to the RAB like he wasn't going to stop, so I took my hand away from the stalk to grab the wheel with both hands in case I had to turn quickly. Fortunately he slammed on the brakes and didn't come out far enough that I had to make an evasive maneuver. But it was too late for me to put my turn signal on. Sorry.

[Chazz]

Yes, and I was one of them! Going north on BV and in the RAB getting ready to indicate to those southbound on BV that I was leaving the RAB to continue north. But a red car coming east on El Camino came racing up to the RAB like he wasn't going to stop, so I took my hand away from the stalk to grab the wheel with both hands in case I had to turn quickly. Fortunately he slammed on the brakes and didn't come out far enough that I had to make an evasive maneuver. But it was too late for me to put my turn signal on. Sorry.

Glad you didn't get hit!

[looneycat]

In addition to all the above, I find the blinkers on the golf carts inadequate in size. They are VERY hard to see especially in bright sunlight. Does someone know if larger, bolder blinker lights are available?

your arms are available, use hand signals

[RItaly]

absolute definition of defensive driving

[TNT]

We live on a corner. Not only do people not use their blinkers, they think that the STOP sign is there for decoration. About 80% of the people just turn without stopping at all. Why do people think that living in The Villages gives them the right to ignore the law??