Golf carts and cart lane

[Mama C]

Within the last year there has been several accidents where people have died from their golf cart accidents.
I have seen first hand golf cart drivers trying to turn left FROM THE GOLF CART LANE!

Please, you HAVE to merge with traffic before turning left!

If this post saves one life, it will be worth it.:gc:


ps: Please do not correct my grammar, ask for my stat data or write anything negative whatsoever........:

[BobnBev]

I saw that exact thing TWICE yesterday.

[Navy (SSBN 633)]

One today so far....don't get it...you certainly would not do it in a car

[blueeagle65]

Use your cart's TURN SIGNAL -AND- a hand signal (left arm extended horizontally - not dangling limply toward the ground) after ensuring that you are clear to merge or turn. You are not magic nor do you have a force field that will protect you.

[Mleeja]

It is a nice rainy day just right for a good dicussion on TOTV. The OP makes a very good point although I would take exception with "several". I think it is two.

However I have an idea to float. Going south on Morse Blvd. the drivers are forced to turn left to continue south on the MMP. With all the golf cart traffice and vehicle traffic, this can be a dangerous intersection. As the OP states, a lot of the time the carts will just merge left into traffic without paying attention to what is behind them. Also, if the northbound gates are up, this makes it difficult to cross to the MMP.

Here is my idea. I believe on the west side of Morse at this location is a golf course and on the east side a preserve. What if we took a little land for each of these location to build a oneway bridge across Morse Blvd? Thoughs?

[Sandtrap328]

It is a nice rainy day just right for a good dicussion on TOTV. The OP makes a very good point although I would take exception with "several". I think it is two.

However I have an idea to float. Going south on Morse Blvd. the drivers are forced to turn left to continue south on the MMP. With all the golf cart traffice and vehicle traffic, this can be a dangerous intersection. As the OP states, a lot of the time the carts will just merge left into traffic without paying attention to what is behind them. Also, if the northbound gates are up, this makes it difficult to cross to the MMP.

Here is my idea. I believe on the west side of Morse at this location is a golf course and on the east side a preserve. What if we took a little land for each of these location to build a oneway bridge across Morse Blvd? Thoughs?

The bridge is not needed at all. The cart drivers should have enough smarts to look carefully to see when they can merge into the left turn lane. I cannot remember car/cart collisions at that point.
There have been accidents up on Morse because a cart driver turned in front of an oncoming car - and at least one fatality.

Like the OP says, cart drivers MUST NOT turn left from the right hand cart lane.

[Chatbrat]

Yesterday, two golf carts following each other did quick u-turns on Bailey Trail--must have been their liquid lunch taking control--I think we'll have a good body county this snow-bird season

[newguyintv]

Yesterday, two golf carts following each other did quick u-turns on Bailey Trail--must have been their liquid lunch taking control--I think we'll have a good body county this snow-bird season

Wouldn't surprise me!

[Challenger]

It is a nice rainy day just right for a good dicussion on TOTV. The OP makes a very good point although I would take exception with "several". I think it is two.

However I have an idea to float. Going south on Morse Blvd. the drivers are forced to turn left to continue south on the MMP. With all the golf cart traffice and vehicle traffic, this can be a dangerous intersection. As the OP states, a lot of the time the carts will just merge left into traffic without paying attention to what is behind them. Also, if the northbound gates are up, this makes it difficult to cross to the MMP.

Here is my idea. I believe on the west side of Morse at this location is a golf course and on the east side a preserve. What if we took a little land for each of these location to build a oneway bridge across Morse Blvd? Thoughs?

A bridge would require a lot more than "a little" land off each side . To cross
a road as busy and wide as Morse would require significant altitude. The approaches in order not to be prohibitively steep would need to be long.


Cost would be high to build this type of structure. My guess at least seven figures. It would require inspections and regular maintenance schedules.
On and On!!!

[John_W]

...Here is my idea. I believe on the west side of Morse at this location is a golf course and on the east side a preserve. What if we took a little land for each of these location to build a oneway bridge across Morse Blvd? Thoughs?

I like your idea but here's the problem. Villagers were very vocal about spending for painted lines on golf cart paths, can you imagine the reaction to a bridge? Second, they are expensive, if I remember correctly that little wooden bridge on the corner of Carrera Dr and Morse cost about $50,000. You're probably looking at a few hundred thousand for what you want to build.

Thinking of safety not just at that intersection but the entire northern distance of Morse would be best to do away with the golf cart lanes on both sides of Morse. They are nothing more than an accident waiting to happen. Put the golf carts on their own MMP on the east side of the roadway, this eliminates the co-mingling of carts and cars on the same roadway in such close proximity.

To accomplish using the existing roadway, pave over the existing Morse roadway obliterating all the current painted lines. Move the car lanes to the extreme western edge of the pavement where a cart lane once was. Cut out about 8' of pavement on the eastern edge and fill with sod, making the road 8' narrower since you've eliminated 2 cart lanes. Fill in the ditch on the right hand side of Morse and pave and create a 2-way MMP for carts only. Now we have separate roadways. Getting carts to homes west of Morse will have to be worked out by weaving Morse to the east and putting the MMP on the westwide and maybe adding a tunnel.

[mixsonci]

I had a problem on the Morse Bridge the other day. It was the first time I ever crossed that bridge by myself in a golf cart. I came over the bridge from LSL heading N to 466 with no problem. However, on the return trip, (I admit I had sunglasses on and may have blurred my vision a bit on a non-sunny day), but it appeared to have 3 lanes to choose from, of course one was the northbound lane, no problem...but I was confused at the other 2 lanes of which I should take, so I took the right lane (wrong), what I didn't realize was the right lane was a sidewalk, with a ramp to get up it. The curb was not defined and I didn't see it. So as soon as I went up the ramp my tires were on the edge of the curb and my cart went over the curb, tilting off the curb. Somehow I managed to right myself before the cart tipped over, but I was quite nervous and shaken up after that. Why don't they paint that curb to set it apart from the sidewalk and cart lane, they all blended together. I realize that I didn't have that problem on the northbound lane because there is no sidewalk on the opposite of that lane.

[virgind]

I agree Morse Blvd and the bridge is a bitch drove that for 8 years back and forth really a lousy set up. Bridge is downright dangerous. Golf cart wise. GC lane needed to be wider. And why should we as residents pay for something the developed screwed up. I f you notice as you go south the GC lanes got wider.

[looneycat]

I had a problem on the Morse Bridge the other day. It was the first time I ever crossed that bridge by myself in a golf cart. I came over the bridge from LSL heading N to 466 with no problem. However, on the return trip, (I admit I had sunglasses on and may have blurred my vision a bit on a non-sunny day), but it appeared to have 3 lanes to choose from, of course one was the northbound lane, no problem...but I was confused at the other 2 lanes of which I should take, so I took the right lane (wrong), what I didn't realize was the right lane was a sidewalk, with a ramp to get up it. The curb was not defined and I didn't see it. So as soon as I went up the ramp my tires were on the edge of the curb and my cart went over the curb, tilting off the curb. Somehow I managed to right myself before the cart tipped over, but I was quite nervous and shaken up after that. Why don't they paint that curb to set it apart from the sidewalk and cart lane, they all blended together. I realize that I didn't have that problem on the northbound lane because there is no sidewalk on the opposite of that lane.

were you going faster than the posted 10mph limit?

[Allegiance]

were you going faster than the posted 10mph limit?
Bingo!

[Bogie Shooter]

I had a problem on the Morse Bridge the other day. It was the first time I ever crossed that bridge by myself in a golf cart. I came over the bridge from LSL heading N to 466 with no problem. However, on the return trip, (I admit I had sunglasses on and may have blurred my vision a bit on a non-sunny day), but it appeared to have 3 lanes to choose from, of course one was the northbound lane, no problem...but I was confused at the other 2 lanes of which I should take, so I took the right lane (wrong), what I didn't realize was the right lane was a sidewalk, with a ramp to get up it. The curb was not defined and I didn't see it. So as soon as I went up the ramp my tires were on the edge of the curb and my cart went over the curb, tilting off the curb. Somehow I managed to right myself before the cart tipped over, but I was quite nervous and shaken up after that. Why don't they paint that curb to set it apart from the sidewalk and cart lane, they all blended together. I realize that I didn't have that problem on the northbound lane because there is no sidewalk on the opposite of that lane.
Oh my, driving a golf cart carries some responsibility of the driver. Did you observe three lanes on the north bound trip? There are many other places that require a driver to pay attention.

[mixsonci]

I take full responsibility as the driver, however, the golf cart lane and the curb were the same dull gray color and blended in so I didn't see the curb until I was falling over it. Yes, admittedly I was probably going about 12 miles an hour, I slowed down when I saw the speed limit sign, (BTW, I never drive over the speed limit even in my car I will use my cruise control to make sure) but that doesn't change the fact that there was no definition from the curb and the street, like not seeing the last step in a swimming pool or staircase if it's not marked. I had plenty of time to decide which lane to take, but I just didn't see a difference in them.

[Miles42]

Always drive in a defensive mode there is no cure for stupid.

[Mleeja]

I take full responsibility as the driver, however, the golf cart lane and the curb were the same dull gray color and blended in so I didn't see the curb until I was falling over it. Yes, admittedly I was probably going about 12 miles an hour, I slowed down when I saw the speed limit sign, (BTW, I never drive over the speed limit even in my car I will use my cruise control to make sure) but that doesn't change the fact that there was no definition from the curb and the street, like not seeing the last step in a swimming pool or staircase if it's not marked. I had plenty of time to decide which lane to take, but I just didn't see a difference in them.

Huh....maybe a white or yellow stipe defining the edge might help.

[mixsonci]

Always drive in a defensive mode there is no cure for stupid.
???? There is no cure for mean spirited personalities either, and they are all around us.

[fred53]

You can try all the changes you'd like, but there will still be accidents. There is a very good reason they're called accidents.

And you can't change the aging process which is likely the greatest contributor to accidents in a 55+ community. So unless you all are willing to have everyone here go through a cart driving test and deny them the right to operate their carts if they fail you WILL have accidents. Deal with it.

[fred53]

Always drive in a defensive mode there is no cure for stupid.

the biggest reason for accidents...I believe it's aging and we'll all be there at some point...if we're lucky.

[OCsun]

Always drive in a defensive mode there is no cure for stupid.

I would tell my grandchildren this statement is rude and not helpful. Straighten up!
Mean Gammy

[golfing eagles]

I would tell my grandchildren this statement is rude and not helpful. Straighten up!

I'm not clear that that post referred to the problem with the unmarked sidewalk/lanes on Morse bridge or that he was calling that person "stupid". I read it as drive defensively because you "can't cure stupid" by other drivers, like those driving the wrong way, cutting in front of you or going clockwise thru a RB----perhaps that poster could clarify?

[tomwed]

////

[Sandtrap328]

The most common - and dangerous - thing I observe are golf carts turning left from the golf cart lane. Folks, put your turn signal on, look to see if there are cars in the lane next to you, get in the car lane and make your safe turn!

Also, cars turn right without checking to see if there is a golf cart in the cart lane.

I would very much like to say this is just a problem with snowbirds (from Long Island) but it is a year round issue.

[JerryP]

I take full responsibility as the driver, however, the golf cart lane and the curb were the same dull gray color and blended in so I didn't see the curb until I was falling over it. Yes, admittedly I was probably going about 12 miles an hour, I slowed down when I saw the speed limit sign, (BTW, I never drive over the speed limit even in my car I will use my cruise control to make sure) but that doesn't change the fact that there was no definition from the curb and the street, like not seeing the last step in a swimming pool or staircase if it's not marked. I had plenty of time to decide which lane to take, but I just didn't see a difference in them.

I commend you for sharing your experience, not everyone owns up to their mistakes. I know I have a hard time doing so.

[SouthOfTheBorder]

We all made it this long by looking both ways before crossing streets. I hope that the last thing I forget.

Good advice....been saying that for a long time. :D

[virgind]

One other thing stop giving right of way where right of way SHOULDN'T be given. Worst place is Canal St going into SL Dont try to rewrite the traffic laws

[Villageswimmer]

One other thing stop giving right of way where right of way SHOULDN'T be given. Worst place is Canal St going into SL Dont try to rewrite the traffic laws

I thought the worst place for that was St. Charles at St. James gate. I always say that no one gave me the authority to overrule traffic signals. When crossing carts have a stop sign, they stop and should never be waived through unless by a LEO. Being a nice guy can cause accidents.

[cquick]

People will keep doing this.....ya can't fix stupid :popcorn:

[JCMSr]

Driving along the MMP the other day along Buena Vista near Pinellas. There were three carts in front of us all driving along at around 20 mph. A cart with two young men came from behind us and tried to pass without realizing the path became divided a short distance ahead. When they realized they could not pass they had to cut back into line almost hitting another cart. Next these same guys decided to pass on the right in the grass median between Buena Vista and the MMP. Once again they came to a stop when the median was blocked by trees and landscaping. They finally got back in line and turned onto Pinellas and continued their journey.

Both moves were "stupid" and served no purpose. It was obvious that their cart was properly limited to a max of 20 mph and their aggressive driving served no purpose. Therefore I agree that no matter what steps are taken on the roads or paths there will always be people behind the wheel that will act stupidly. Notice that I mentioned these guys were young (probably around 30 max) so getting older had nothing to do with their poor driving habits.

[Topspinmo]

Also, if people going to bull**** or ask for directions please move OFF the paths. Stopping in the middle of any road not wise decision. Also walkers, bikers, not good idea to ride or walk two abreast on blind corners. Other day due to over grown shrubs on corner three walkers facing traffic on MM path with golf carts meeting at the corner. Luckily both golf carts drivers wasn't taking the curve too fast and was able to quickly stop. The three walkers keep on like nothing was wrong blocking both lanes.

[Chatbrat]

Also when you have relatives visiting, think how long it took to learn the lay of the land and how to drive in the villages. So, why do you hand the keys to your golf cart to anyone over 14 years and expect them to drive safely in The Villages.

And you let your children drive a golf cart with your grand child being held in their arms & you're sit alongside the driver.

[Fred R]

When I head down the road in my cart I am not trying to set a land speed record. Sometimes, just sometimes, some guy will get on my tail and when he has the chance speed on by me. He doesn't even wave. If you are in that much of a hurry, take the car and leave the cart at home. How can so many folks be in that much of a hurry when they probably don't even work. They're retired..Take it easy....Enjoy life.

[RickeyD]

Driving a golf cart is fun !!!!!
Weeeeeeeeeeeee hear I come !!!

[Bogie Shooter]

Driving along the MMP the other day along Buena Vista near Pinellas. There were three carts in front of us all driving along at around 20 mph. A cart with two young men came from behind us and tried to pass without realizing the path became divided a short distance ahead. When they realized they could not pass they had to cut back into line almost hitting another cart. Next these same guys decided to pass on the right in the grass median between Buena Vista and the MMP. Once again they came to a stop when the median was blocked by trees and landscaping. They finally got back in line and turned onto Pinellas and continued their journey.

Both moves were "stupid" and served no purpose. It was obvious that their cart was properly limited to a max of 20 mph and their aggressive driving served no purpose. Therefore I agree that no matter what steps are taken on the roads or paths there will always be people behind the wheel that will act stupidly. Notice that I mentioned these guys were young (probably around 30 max) so getting older had nothing to do with their poor driving habits.

This was the fault of their Daddy for letting them take the cart!