Gate Guards knocked down

[butch69]

I read an article about all the gate guards being knocked down by cart and cars. It listed several distractions that might cause it, but one of the best things they could do is paint the stripes YELLOW instead of red. There is a reason highway stripes are painted yellow and not red. Yellow is the most visible color of all the colors, it is the first color that the human eye notices. Might not solve 100% of the problem but it should cause a dramatic reduction in accidents.

[villagetinker]

I had made a suggestion a few tears ago to have a yellow triangle hanging from the cross arm, to IMPROVE visibility. I was told the arms design was a state requirement and what I was requesting could not be done. I have observed several times that the gate arms can be hard to see, even when you know they are there.

[Topspinmo]

If they can’t see gate cross the road that has reflective that lights up at night when headlights hits it, maybe it their driving skills? Or lack of due to too much Jack or reefers. And for very few that just need to slow down. Who knows there maybe another intentional gate crasher like the one that got caught few months go?

[dewilson58]

If they can’t see gate cross the road that has reflective that lights up at night when headlights hits it, maybe it their driving skills? Or lack of due to too much Jack or reefers. And for very few that just need to slow down. Who knows there maybe another intentional gate crasher like the one that got caught few months go?


& the "I think I can make it" drivers.

[kathyspear]

The other evening we were driving down 441/27 past Water Oak and I noticed that their gate lights up (either red or green) as it goes up and down. So much easier to see!

kathy

[RICH1]

Install sharp nails on the arms , the culprits can be located at the Body Shop

[Topspinmo]

& the "I think I can make it" drivers.

How that reefer.

[Decadeofdave]

I have noticed over many, many years, you just cannot "idiot proof" everything.

[Jeremiah Riordan]

I read an article about all the gate guards being knocked down by cart and cars. It listed several distractions that might cause it, but one of the best things they could do is paint the stripes YELLOW instead of red. There is a reason highway stripes are painted yellow and not red. Yellow is the most visible color of all the colors, it is the first color that the human eye notices. Might not solve 100% of the problem but it should cause a dramatic reduction in accidents.

As most us ol' military retirees know, color red appears as black in low/no light conditions. Good suggestion to change, and why not add some shapes on the arms as well. The almost-immediate reduction in the $ spent on gate maintenance would probably more than cover the $ outlay to accomplish the change, as well as improve safety.

[Neils]

Not usually a problem in seeing the arms. Just a problem waiting for the arm to clear, or trying to beat the arm closing

[Astron]

I have noticed that the reflective material on many of the arms is degraded and is minimally visible at night. I agree with others, put LED lights on the gate arms; or just remove them. They are at best a false sense of security.

[Two Bills]

Gate Guards knocked down.

After reading the OP Title, I thought that as all the barriers were being destroyed, drivers were knocking down the gate attendants instead!

[Girlcopper]

I had made a suggestion a few tears ago to have a yellow triangle hanging from the cross arm, to IMPROVE visibility. I was told the arms design was a state requirement and what I was requesting could not be done. I have observed several times that the gate arms can be hard to see, even when you know they are there.
Very true. I almost took the gate out on Morse Blvd southbound just before 466. I know its there but......no excuse. Didnt see it and forgot and skidded to a stop in time. NOW I always remember even if its not visible. That one time scared the hell out of me

[Joeyb]

I’m moved here in July. For a retirement area, I have never seen as many folks impatient and in such a big hurry. You all need to slow down! Someone wrote they skidded to a stop...skidded! Shouldn’t be going fast enough to skid going through a gate! There is no need to “beat” the arm from closing either as they all have sensors and won’t close until your vehicle passes. SLOW DOWN PEOPLE! Frankly, I’m tired of being tailgated and witnessing many racing around at 20 mph faster than posted speed limits. People in our own village must all have somewhere to be that it is more important for them rather than respecting the safety of those around them. If local law enforcement would simply start smacking some with speeding fines, this would stop quickly. My middle finger has been getting some heavy use. rather than enjoying a car ride up Morse Blvd, it is usually quite stressful. I guess I’ll have to continue my friendly “wave”. It’s actually sad.

[Lyn Wagner]

I think a speed bump or two would help.

[NormLawhorn]

I agree. The red stripes on the gates are often difficult to see.

[tsmall22204]

As I drive in some neighborhoods, I find the gate blends with the surroundings especially when leaving. Something needs to be done but don't ask a Florida traffic engineer, we all see how well they know what they are doing.

[Catalina36]

Simple Solution to Crashing the Gates. How about paying attention to your DRIVING, GO SLOW when approaching the gates, GET OFF THE CELL PHONE when approaching the gate. If your Cell phone rings ignore it. I think they should raise the fine of crashing a gate to $500.00. Maybe that will get people to slow down and pay attention to their driving!!!!!

[JWish]

Totally agree! We just closed on our house in January and spent some time exploring and realized we were having trouble seeing the gate arms, even knowing they were there. My husband thought a triangle would be an improvement as well. Somehow they’re too skinny or not bright enough and just blend in to the background. And we weren’t trying to squeeze in as they were coming down!

[Leadbone1]

I read an article about all the gate guards being knocked down by cart and cars. It listed several distractions that might cause it, but one of the best things they could do is paint the stripes YELLOW instead of red. There is a reason highway stripes are painted yellow and not red. Yellow is the most visible color of all the colors, it is the first color that the human eye notices. Might not solve 100% of the problem but it should cause a dramatic reduction in accidents.

Well as far as I know if you knock a gate down you pay for it. The cameras take your picture and they get in touch with you and I think it cost somewhere just under $200? The gate thing it’s nothing compared to what goes on in the roundabouts. Was on my bike yesterday and saw someone from the outside lane, which is an exit, lane run right into the side of a car that was on the inside and going straight. The arrows on the signs coming into the roundabouts clearly show how they are to be used. It’s not rocket science but you would think it was?

[Catalina36]

I just don't understand the Crashing of the Gates?? Some people suggested Yellow instead of Red?? Some people said the Gates are hard to see at night?? This is simple. There is a gate house and the entrance alone should be enough for you to remember there is a Gate there. The Gate goes up and then you proceed. How about SLOWING DOWN and stop being in a RUSH to get where your going. STOP BLAMING THE GATES, ITS THE DRIVERS.

[Jhnidy]

Why are the gates even there? So phoney

[birdiebill]

Why are the gates even there? So phoney

The gates are there to slow auto traffic so golf carts can cross the intersection behind the gates. If the gates were not at those locations, there would be a significant number of golf carts being hit by autos since so many car and truck drivers would not slow down.

[Langwelld]

The entry gates should be replaced by speed bumps. The gates are expensive to maintain and totally unnecessary!!

[Best family]

Forget speed bumps. You need the law enforcement that has gone lax. No accountability anymore

[chuckpedrey]

I’d like to see some kind of flag hanging across the arm.

[mydavid]

I think a speed bump or two would help. I agree, they may not slow the first time, believe me they will next time.:ho:

[bluecenturian]

Not completely accurate.

The most visible color, especially at night is green. It’s a major reasons firearm lights are green. They use red also because the green wavelength requires more power than red.

Red is the most recognizable color, meaning the eye distinguishes it from background colors more easily. And red has been psychological taught to us to mean stop.

White reflects the most light, more than a mirror. This is a big reason safety equipment (signs, lights) are red & white. The reflective material used also increases red and white much more than yellow.

Yellow, although is a highly visible color was chosen for street lines because of its visibility but more so because of its already psychological idea to mean safety. Traffic signals existed before markings and motorist already associated yellow with caution. Yellow and white are also the most contrasting colors to black pavement, hence why its yellow over red.

So it’s not only the colors but what other colors that it needs to contrast with.

[jbrown132]

& the "I think I can make it" drivers.

That’s right. In the time I have lived in The Villages I have seen two gates taken out. Both times, they got up on the bumper of the car in front of them and tried to make it through and did not make it. Why are these idiots in such a hurry. I mean they may have to wait a hole five seconds.

[Bogie Shooter]

The entry gates should be replaced by speed bumps. The gates are expensive to maintain and totally unnecessary!!

If you cannot see the gates.....how would you see the speed bumps? Gates prevent golf cart accidents, Think about lt!

[Nick B]

If you cannot see the gates.....how would you see the speed bumps? Gates prevent golf cart accidents, Think about lt!
If you don't see you will feel.

[PaulinTV]

As I drive in some neighborhoods, I find the gate blends with the surroundings especially when leaving. Something needs to be done but don't ask a Florida traffic engineer, we all see how well they know what they are doing.

Maybe we should suggest putting a round-a-bout in place of the gates.......

[Travelingal702]

Gate Guards knocked down.

After reading the OP Title, I thought that as all the barriers were being destroyed, drivers were knocking down the gate attendants instead!
Yup, that's the way I read it, too. People have to rethink their SUBJECT postings as to how others may interpret it.

[Cheryl Barrios]

I suggest you put your middle finger away before one of your aggressive neighbors follows you home and puts it where the sun don't shine. Oh and do you need a reminder of how many people are armed these days?

Just asking - Is it his duty to change because he's reacting to the very poor and probably illegal behavior of another driver? Or should it be the duty of the poor and probably illegal behavior of the other driver to change? And is it legal for someone to drive illegally or aggressively and then shoot and kill someone because they stuck a finger up at them? Wow. Just Wow.

[Fastskiguy]

Changing the gate color or shape is sorta a solution in search of a problem. But the idea of installing nails on them does have some merit.

[4557Spahr]

The gate on Morse by 466 is left up much of the time. You never can tell if it’s up for the day or if it’s going to come down on you. I wish they’d make up their minds.

[toeser]

I read an article about all the gate guards being knocked down by cart and cars. It listed several distractions that might cause it, but one of the best things they could do is paint the stripes YELLOW instead of red. There is a reason highway stripes are painted yellow and not red. Yellow is the most visible color of all the colors, it is the first color that the human eye notices. Might not solve 100% of the problem but it should cause a dramatic reduction in accidents.

I agree. The reflective material used on the gate arms is borderline useless. I know where the arms are and they are hard to see at night. Imagine a visitor. If someone keeps having the same problem over and over and never tries a different solution, they become part of the problem.

[Carla B]

I think that some years ago the gate arms were yellow and "Welcome Home" was written on them. They were much more visible than the red and white ones, which sometimes blend into the surroundings, especially at dusk. Someone said that they were changed to comply with state regulations.

[jabacon6669]

I agree with Joeyb. You don't see people knocking down the guard at a railroad crossing. Put some blinking red leds on the gates.

[wddhaene@comcast.net]

When I was in Siesta Key they had a light strip on the bar. It was really easy to see.

[Topspinmo]

I propose village tax to enact all suggestions. Each of use can pay $100 dollars or so to have gates painted, new reflective tape in rainbow of colors, flashing lights, speed bumps, stop sign, before the golf cart crossing, automatic ticketing cameras ������, Law enforcement at every entry, and last loud speakers blasting 30 yards before the gates. And still there will be gate crashes.

[Topspinmo]

I agree with Joeyb. You don't see people knocking down the guard at a railroad crossing. Put some blinking red leds on the gates.

No, they just drive around them:icon_wink:

[wmcgowan]

I read an article about all the gate guards being knocked down by cart and cars. It listed several distractions that might cause it, but one of the best things they could do is paint the stripes YELLOW instead of red. There is a reason highway stripes are painted yellow and not red. Yellow is the most visible color of all the colors, it is the first color that the human eye notices. Might not solve 100% of the problem but it should cause a dramatic reduction in accidents.

some people are red - xxxx colorblind - yellow is better

[Bob.Betty]

Soooooo true! For the most part everyone knows they are there, For the life of me I can't figure out why everyone is in such a hurry to go........where?

[dhdallas]

I read an article about all the gate guards being knocked down by cart and cars. It listed several distractions that might cause it, but one of the best things they could do is paint the stripes YELLOW instead of red. There is a reason highway stripes are painted yellow and not red. Yellow is the most visible color of all the colors, it is the first color that the human eye notices. Might not solve 100% of the problem but it should cause a dramatic reduction in accidents.

The gates are already painted in nice visible colors and are at eye level. Repainting them in dayglo neon green, orange or whatever wouldn’t make a difference to these people. Remember you have to LOOK to see them.

I will agree that it is hard to see under some circumstances such as popping open another beer, texting or otherwise using a cell phone, speeding, in too big of a hurry to see if the gate is fully raised, and other critically important tasks!

Without gates, the intersection of cart path & car entrance would be similar to the intersection of a ‘Figure-8” race track. Carnage & mayhem would soon follow.

We do NEED the gates so what is the answer? I would suggest doubling the fines/replacement costs to the offender and ADD speed bumps (not replace the gates with speed bumps).

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/dhdallas-118996/albums/cartoons/9210-drinking-golfing-go-together-like-jack-coke.jpg

[valuemkt]

The colors certainly need tobe changed. However, many gates respond, or dont respond differently to the gate cards. many make you wait until the gate opening from the prior car is completely down. On the way out, some go up a reasonable distance away so you can roll through. Others dont go up until you have the car butt up to the gate itself. It's not just "hoodlums" racing through. Consistency is needed

[Trob62]

You cannot see the one in Marshbend when the sun comes up in the morning. Nothing wrong with my eyes or driving. When the sun hits those colors in the morning they are invisible until you get abot 15 feet away from it.

[candlweav]

I’m moved here in July. For a retirement area, I have never seen as many folks impatient and in such a big hurry. You all need to slow down! Someone wrote they skidded to a stop...skidded! Shouldn’t be going fast enough to skid going through a gate! There is no need to “beat” the arm from closing either as they all have sensors and won’t close until your vehicle passes. SLOW DOWN PEOPLE! Frankly, I’m tired of being tailgated and witnessing many racing around at 20 mph faster than posted speed limits. People in our own village must all have somewhere to be that it is more important for them rather than respecting the safety of those around them. If local law enforcement would simply start smacking some with speeding fines, this would stop quickly. My middle finger has been getting some heavy use. rather than enjoying a car ride up Morse Blvd, it is usually quite stressful. I guess I’ll have to continue my friendly “wave”. It’s actually sad.

Sorry, I'm on the other side of that coin. Some folks may be Type A and some Type B but, regardless of their mode, there is no need to be inconsiderate. As tired as you are of tailgaters, I'm just as tired of people who impose their preferences onto me. There's always that question; are they holding me to their speed because they're oblivious or because they're defiant? You sound an awful lot like the latter. Frankly, neither approach is earning consideration. Hey, I'm getting old and my time is short - I need to get moving so I can get it all done!

[PugMom]

Not usually a problem in seeing the arms. Just a problem waiting for the arm to clear, or trying to beat the arm closing

that's it, isn't it? the driver who just cannot wait for his turn, tries to slide along & pass with the car in front. i see this most often going into SS heading for 441.

[Bill14564]

I don't understand this at all. If you don't see the gate you just assume it isn't there??? Aside from the lack of safe-driving skills, perhaps some drivers' judgment should be questioned!

If you can't see whether the gate is up or down ... look harder! Red on white, yellow on white, flag or no flag... the current gates are not transparent, they can be seen if you bother to look for them.

It would help if the timing on the gates were all adjusted to be the same. I've approached exit gates that seem to be staying open but were just on a long delay and started back down again. I've not had a close call with these but I can see how it could happen.

Speed bumps would be an unnecessary expense and aggravation that would not solve the problem of hitting the gates or serve the purpose that the gates serve. If someone can't see the red and white gate arm across the entrance then they won't see the speed bump either. They will still hit the gate but they may lose control of their vehicle at the same time. For those who don't have problems with the gate the speed bumps will just cause aggravation.

The purpose of the gate is to cause traffic to stop and make the crossing safer for anyone on the MMP. Since a speed bump slows traffic but doesn't stop it, the speed bump will not help those on the MMP. Instead of being able to cross the road when the gate is down and stopping traffic, those on the MMP would have to wait until the entire line of cars has passed. Or, they would have to gamble that they could cross ahead of the driver who will soon be speeding away from the speed bump. (note, this is the same driver who would not have seen the gate and therefore would not see the pedestrian in the crosswalk).

[Andyw]

I think the lack of consistent timing on the gate is one of the biggest problems. Some gates go down very quickly some stay up.

[vermonster]

I’m moved here in July. For a retirement area, I have never seen as many folks impatient and in such a big hurry. You all need to slow down! Someone wrote they skidded to a stop...skidded! Shouldn’t be going fast enough to skid going through a gate! There is no need to “beat” the arm from closing either as they all have sensors and won’t close until your vehicle passes. SLOW DOWN PEOPLE! Frankly, I’m tired of being tailgated and witnessing many racing around at 20 mph faster than posted speed limits. People in our own village must all have somewhere to be that it is more important for them rather than respecting the safety of those around them. If local law enforcement would simply start smacking some with speeding fines, this would stop quickly. My middle finger has been getting some heavy use. rather than enjoying a car ride up Morse Blvd, it is usually quite stressful. I guess I’ll have to continue my friendly “wave”. It’s actually sad.

Most of the problems concerning vehicles here are due to impatience. As you observed, cars doing well over the speed limit, tailgating (I do not understand this unless it is an attempt to intimidate the other driver into speeding up), racing around the roundabouts and passing other vehicles on the right (even when they signal their intention to exit, trying to beat out other vehicles to the next red light/roundabout/stop sign/whatever, turning right in front of golf carts nearly parallel (cause of an accident on Morse Boulevard the other day), although I have to admit I am sometimes surprised by how fast souped up golf carts close the gap. I look at driving to a destination as a cooperative venture, where my goal is to see that I and everyone else get to their destinations safely. Many drivers here see driving as a competitive and really are only happy if they beat you to the next red light or roundabout, etc. , and perhaps arrive at their destinations 2, 3, or minutes quicker. Remember, in the dictionary safety comes before speed.

[jimjamuser]

I read an article about all the gate guards being knocked down by cart and cars. It listed several distractions that might cause it, but one of the best things they could do is paint the stripes YELLOW instead of red. There is a reason highway stripes are painted yellow and not red. Yellow is the most visible color of all the colors, it is the first color that the human eye notices. Might not solve 100% of the problem but it should cause a dramatic reduction in accidents.
Great thread starter, Mr Butch, kudos! The color red has been used traditionally as a warning sign (like stop signs). But, as you point out red has its drawbacks. The tradition probably developed because of the color of human blood - but I do NOT know that for a fact? I have noticed that when approaching a gate bar, my eyes tend to scan AHEAD for a greater distance - this combined with stupidity and inattention has caused me to sometimes need to tap the brakes. I have never actually hit one or even had to slam on the brakes. I DO, however, understand why some would hit them. I hope some good suggestions come out of posts on this excellent thread. Some sort of warning sound placed ahead of the gate in both directions might work. Or a mild speed bump with a mechanical bell sound. The solution needs to be inexpensive and simple.

[MizJodi]

Welcome to The Villages 500

[mramsett]

I get so irritated by the way the guards at the gates let the cars through without even stopping them for an appropriate amount of time. The cars on the left are trying to avoid using their gate cards and are looking for a fast way to get through the gate. It is extremely dangerous for the driver who has used his/her card correctly and has stopped. When he she starts to move forward the car on the left dashes through to beat him/her. The car on the left should yield to the car using the card and the guard at the gate should be watching to make sure this happens by not opening the gate till it is appropriate and avoids this problem. I saw an accident almost happen the other day because of this type of situation and the driver on the left honked at the driver on the right. The guard should be trained to watch this. If you are a resident, use your card!!! That is a misuse of the left gate.







I’m moved here in July. For a retirement area, I have never seen as many folks impatient and in such a big hurry. You all need to slow down! Someone wrote they skidded to a stop...skidded! Shouldn’t be going fast enough to skid going through a gate! There is no need to “beat” the arm from closing either as they all have sensors and won’t close until your vehicle passes. SLOW DOWN PEOPLE! Frankly, I’m tired of being tailgated and witnessing many racing around at 20 mph faster than posted speed limits. People in our own village must all have somewhere to be that it is more important for them rather than respecting the safety of those around them. If local law enforcement would simply start smacking some with speeding fines, this would stop quickly. My middle finger has been getting some heavy use. rather than enjoying a car ride up Morse Blvd, it is usually quite stressful. I guess I’ll have to continue my friendly “wave”. It’s actually sad.

[gwenhwalker@yahoo.com]

Stop signs would work if positioned correctly for cart passings

[Buckeye Bob]

As most us ol' military retirees know, color red appears as black in low/no light conditions. Good suggestion to change, and why not add some shapes on the arms as well. The almost-immediate reduction in the $ spent on gate maintenance would probably more than cover the $ outlay to accomplish the change, as well as improve safety.

Could be that repairing/replacing the arms is a very profitable business; I believe they charge $250 to the culprit.

[jimjamuser]

I have noticed over many, many years, you just cannot "idiot proof" everything.
It would not hurt to try. There is always a solution - if cost is no object.

[Annie66]

Gate Guards knocked down.

After reading the OP Title, I thought that as all the barriers were being destroyed, drivers were knocking down the gate attendants instead!

Me too.

[BudPollard]

Being a rude driver solves no problem!

[Topspinmo]

The gates are already painted in nice visible colors and are at eye level. Repainting them in dayglo neon green, orange or whatever wouldn’t make a difference to these people. Remember you have to LOOK to see them.

I will agree that it is hard to see under some circumstances such as popping open another beer, texting or otherwise using a cell phone, speeding, in too big of a hurry to see if the gate is fully raised, and other critically important tasks!

Without gates, the intersection of cart path & car entrance would be similar to the intersection of a ‘Figure-8” race track. Carnage & mayhem would soon follow.

We do NEED the gates so what is the answer? I would suggest doubling the fines/replacement costs to the offender and ADD speed bumps (not replace the gates with speed bumps).

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/dhdallas-118996/albums/cartoons/9210-drinking-golfing-go-together-like-jack-coke.jpg

Is that golfers special handicap sticker I see on the windshield? :):)

[jimjamuser]

I’m moved here in July. For a retirement area, I have never seen as many folks impatient and in such a big hurry. You all need to slow down! Someone wrote they skidded to a stop...skidded! Shouldn’t be going fast enough to skid going through a gate! There is no need to “beat” the arm from closing either as they all have sensors and won’t close until your vehicle passes. SLOW DOWN PEOPLE! Frankly, I’m tired of being tailgated and witnessing many racing around at 20 mph faster than posted speed limits. People in our own village must all have somewhere to be that it is more important for them rather than respecting the safety of those around them. If local law enforcement would simply start smacking some with speeding fines, this would stop quickly. My middle finger has been getting some heavy use. rather than enjoying a car ride up Morse Blvd, it is usually quite stressful. I guess I’ll have to continue my friendly “wave”. It’s actually sad.
Good post, excellent. Kudos! You would think that all-day every-day - rush hour was going on in TV Land. I notice that also. We must have too many fully caffeinated ex-hot rod enthusiasts here. And the lawn service people race around with large, heavy trailers playing the child's game, "We don't stop for nobody". They also like to park in the middle of small residential streets. That is one of their favorite jokes. Welcome to elderly Crazyville!

[jimjamuser]

I think a speed bump or two would help.
Why punish the MANY for the sins of the FEW. Better to give out LARGE speeding tickets - more equitable - and reward good behavior by police giving free gift vouchers from local stores to drivers maintaining safe speeds on a lottery basis. 'Catch more flies with honey than vinegar"......just saying?

[jimjamuser]

some people are red - xxxx colorblind - yellow is better
Also, as we age we get more cataracts which slowly DULL the brilliance of the colors. Ask anyone how improved colors are AFTER a cataracts operation.

[jimjamuser]

I just don't understand the Crashing of the Gates?? Some people suggested Yellow instead of Red?? Some people said the Gates are hard to see at night?? This is simple. There is a gate house and the entrance alone should be enough for you to remember there is a Gate there. The Gate goes up and then you proceed. How about SLOWING DOWN and stop being in a RUSH to get where your going. STOP BLAMING THE GATES, ITS THE DRIVERS.
Not ALL gates have gate HOUSES!

[jimjamuser]

Why are the gates even there? So phoney
The gates are there to create an ambiance, to create an ILLUSION of SECURITY. Many TV Landers buy into that illusion (literally and pay up for their property). Then they leave their homes unlocked and the criminals take over from there. TV Land is a soft and profitable target for local crime. We are NOT a true gated community.

[jimjamuser]

Not completely accurate.

The most visible color, especially at night is green. It’s a major reasons firearm lights are green. They use red also because the green wavelength requires more power than red.

Red is the most recognizable color, meaning the eye distinguishes it from background colors more easily. And red has been psychological taught to us to mean stop.

White reflects the most light, more than a mirror. This is a big reason safety equipment (signs, lights) are red & white. The reflective material used also increases red and white much more than yellow.

Yellow, although is a highly visible color was chosen for street lines because of its visibility but more so because of its already psychological idea to mean safety. Traffic signals existed before markings and motorist already associated yellow with caution. Yellow and white are also the most contrasting colors to black pavement, hence why its yellow over red.

So it’s not only the colors but what other colors that it needs to contrast with.
I disagree with the statement. "the most visible color is green". if so, why then would most summer camouflage be variations of green? Why would flowers be red and yellow? If green were the brightest then leaves would be yellow and flowers would be green. Also, green leaves are dark to ABSORBE sunlight not reflect it. Green is NOT bright in THIS world!

[jimjamuser]

Maybe we should suggest putting a round-a-bout in place of the gates.......
Single lane round-about would be OK by me. But, the idea is to sell the illusion of security.

[jimjamuser]

Just asking - Is it his duty to change because he's reacting to the very poor and probably illegal behavior of another driver? Or should it be the duty of the poor and probably illegal behavior of the other driver to change? And is it legal for someone to drive illegally or aggressively and then shoot and kill someone because they stuck a finger up at them? Wow. Just Wow.
Ah yes, the philosophic and moral dilemma between "might and right".

[jimjamuser]

Sorry, I'm on the other side of that coin. Some folks may be Type A and some Type B but, regardless of their mode, there is no need to be inconsiderate. As tired as you are of tailgaters, I'm just as tired of people who impose their preferences onto me. There's always that question; are they holding me to their speed because they're oblivious or because they're defiant? You sound an awful lot like the latter. Frankly, neither approach is earning consideration. Hey, I'm getting old and my time is short - I need to get moving so I can get it all done!
That seems like Bizzaroland to me - where older people have a NEED and therefore a right to drive faster? Older eyes and slower reflexes would logically mean less SPEEDING.

[jimjamuser]

I get so irritated by the way the guards at the gates let the cars through without even stopping them for an appropriate amount of time. The cars on the left are trying to avoid using their gate cards and are looking for a fast way to get through the gate. It is extremely dangerous for the driver who has used his/her card correctly and has stopped. When he she starts to move forward the car on the left dashes through to beat him/her. The car on the left should yield to the car using the card and the guard at the gate should be watching to make sure this happens by not opening the gate till it is appropriate and avoids this problem. I saw an accident almost happen the other day because of this type of situation and the driver on the left honked at the driver on the right. The guard should be trained to watch this. If you are a resident, use your card!!! That is a misuse of the left gate.
True that! The left incoming gate lane should be used only for people seeking information. Not a quicker way in. If the gatekeeper moved real, real, really slowly, maybe people would get the hint.

[jimjamuser]

Stop signs would work if positioned correctly for cart passings
But, no illusion of exclusivity!

[Stu from NYC]

Not ALL gates have gate HOUSES!

Why is that?

[Stu from NYC]

The gates are there to create an ambiance, to create an ILLUSION of SECURITY. Many TV Landers buy into that illusion (literally and pay up for their property). Then they leave their homes unlocked and the criminals take over from there. TV Land is a soft and profitable target for local crime. We are NOT a true gated community.

Be that as it may but there is very little crime here.

[Bogie Shooter]

The gates are there to create an ambiance, to create an ILLUSION of SECURITY. Many TV Landers buy into that illusion (literally and pay up for their property). Then they leave their homes unlocked and the criminals take over from there. TV Land is a soft and profitable target for local crime. We are NOT a true gated community.
Just how much local crime have you seen? It’s certainly not the level you are implying.

[fpmoravcik]

You are right. Sometimes the arm blends in with the backround

[Fastskiguy]

Wait...what are we talking about here? The gates to get in or the gates to get out? Because I thought you had to go one at a time coming in with the card and all of that. But I've been driving out along with the car in front of me for the last year without ever hitting the gate....I thought that was sorta OK?

Joe

[Kenswing]

Just how much local crime have you seen? It’s certainly not the level you are implying.
At least he didn't compare us to Australia this time. lol

[Pairadocs]

The entry gates should be replaced by speed bumps. The gates are expensive to maintain and totally unnecessary!!

Totally unnecessary is right. How anyone can get by with putting up "gates" and having "guards" called ambassadors on PUBLIC roads I have never figured out ! ? Can any neighborhood in any city in Florida decide to look "private", and just slap up gates, arms, man the "guard houses" and make the public stop to enter their neighborhood ? What would happen if people in Ocala, or Leesburg, just decided to "act" exclusive and slap up some gates... back up traffic a half mile or more only letting ONE car at a time down their street ? Expense for what, the sake of ego of those among us who enjoy the illusion that this is some kind of exclusive enclave ? I don't know, but sure would be nice to turn by the high school and just go over a speed bump or two and drive right to your home without a one, by one, by one line clear to the 4 lane highway of 466. Insanity for sure, what we need is the state saying people can't just slap up gates onto public streets and roads ! Oh, and how many people have the pleasure of (formerly) NOT having to roll their automatic windows up and down all day long, wonder how many expensive repairs per year that costs our residents ! ?

[RuthA]

I think painting the gates a different color would help a lot. They are hard to see. Could it be the "developer" likes it when people hit them so they can fine them $250 a pop?

[Stu from NYC]

I think painting the gates a different color would help a lot. They are hard to see. Could it be the "developer" likes it when people hit them so they can fine them $250 a pop?

Doesnt the district get the money and use it to repair the arm?

[Pairadocs]

I read an article about all the gate guards being knocked down by cart and cars. It listed several distractions that might cause it, but one of the best things they could do is paint the stripes YELLOW instead of red. There is a reason highway stripes are painted yellow and not red. Yellow is the most visible color of all the colors, it is the first color that the human eye notices. Might not solve 100% of the problem but it should cause a dramatic reduction in accidents.

Maybe best said "gate ARMS" not gate "guards"..... but we knew you didn't mean the "guards/ambassadors, just havin' a little fun, not much of that around any more !

[Bizdoc]

Make the gate arms out of structural steel. Will take a couple of weeks for the word to get out that running into them will result in a significant repair bill. After that, folks will start to pay attention.

[brfree1411@aol.com]

Me too! I thought it was the guards.

[dhdallas]

Stop signs would work if positioned correctly for cart passings

Are you kidding? Stop signs WOULD work if people obeyed them. Spend some time watching intersections and see all the carts & bicycles running the stop signs with just a quick (or no) glance to see if it is clear. Fuhgetaboutit!

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/dhdallas-118996/albums/cartoons/9214-can-you-see-me-now.jpg

[Bogie Shooter]

Wait...what are we talking about here? The gates to get in or the gates to get out? Because I thought you had to go one at a time coming in with the card and all of that. But I've been driving out along with the car in front of me for the last year without ever hitting the gate....I thought that was sorta OK?

Joe

Thats piggy backing. What do you do when tailgating and the vehicle ahead has to make an emergency stop? You are putting the driver ahead of you in danger. Why the hell are you in such a big hurry? Or so lazy to scan your card?

[Bogie Shooter]

Totally unnecessary is right. How anyone can get by with putting up "gates" and having "guards" called ambassadors on PUBLIC roads I have never figured out ! ? Can any neighborhood in any city in Florida decide to look "private", and just slap up gates, arms, man the "guard houses" and make the public stop to enter their neighborhood ? What would happen if people in Ocala, or Leesburg, just decided to "act" exclusive and slap up some gates... back up traffic a half mile or more only letting ONE car at a time down their street ? Expense for what, the sake of ego of those among us who enjoy the illusion that this is some kind of exclusive enclave ? I don't know, but sure would be nice to turn by the high school and just go over a speed bump or two and drive right to your home without a one, by one, by one line clear to the 4 lane highway of 466. Insanity for sure, what we need is the state saying people can't just slap up gates onto public streets and roads ! Oh, and how many people have the pleasure of (formerly) NOT having to roll their automatic windows up and down all day long, wonder how many expensive repairs per year that costs our residents ! ?

You did not cover golf cart safety in your rant.

[Bogie Shooter]

I think painting the gates a different color would help a lot. They are hard to see. Could it be the "developer" likes it when people hit them so they can fine them $250 a pop?

Explain how the Developer benefits?

[Stu from NYC]

Are you kidding? Stop signs WOULD work if people obeyed them. Spend some time watching intersections and see all the carts & bicycles running the stop signs with just a quick (or no) glance to see if it is clear. Fuhgetaboutit!

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/members/dhdallas-118996/albums/cartoons/9214-can-you-see-me-now.jpg

People here think stop signs are a suggestion to slow down a bit, almost nobody comes to a full stop.

Ticket for this and very quickly real estate taxes can get rolled back!:bigbow:

[Bill14564]

Thats piggy backing. What do you do when tailgating and the vehicle ahead has to make an emergency stop? You are putting the driver ahead of you in danger. Why the hell are you in such a big hurry? Or so lazy to scan your card?

Define "such a big hurry." I've sat at an open exit gate for about 15 seconds waiting for it to come back down since I "knew" it was supposed to close and open between each car. There was no tailgating, the car in front was well around the circle and the gate was still up. The guy behind me finally let me know he was tired of waiting and he and I and at least one more car exited without the gate closing.

The best I can figure is the exit gate is triggered by a sensor in the road or by motion detection. It will usually (there are always exceptions) see a second vehicle and will not go back down until all vehicles have cleared. It seems the exit gates are designed to allow or encourage "piggy backing."

[Bogie Shooter]

I stand corrected on exit gates, my comments relate to entry gates.

[Fastskiguy]

I stand corrected on exit gates, my comments relate to entry gates.

I didn't know you could sneak thru on entry gates with the car in front of you....do you think that's why some or most or all of the gate damage occurs? It must be the case....who doesn't know there is a gate at every entrance?

Joe

[Stu from NYC]

I didn't know you could sneak thru on entry gates with the car in front of you....do you think that's why some or most or all of the gate damage occurs? It must be the case....who doesn't know there is a gate at every entrance?

Joe

Driving past a gate a little while ago a golf cart did follow a car thru a gate and did must make it thru.

[Number 10 GI]

Lets put up swinging red lights like at rail road crossings. 3 billion lumen lights to brighten the area like a nuclear blast.
Gate guards dressed in neon green suits waving semaphore flags and 5 foot long flash light cones. There would still be gate arms being hit. Why? Because there are a lot of people in TV that have no business driving a motor vehicle. I watched a man at a bank teller machine park just past the machine. He got out of his vehicle and had to brace himself against his SUV so he wouldn't fall and then had to hold onto the teller machine he wouldn't fall. That guy shouldn't be allowed to drive a tricycle let alone a 4,000 lb car.
I don't know how long you have to live here before you can remember that there is a gate arm at the entrances to the different villages. If your memory is that faulty you don't need to be driving. If you CAN remember that there is a gate arm at the entrances but at a distance of a few feet can't see it, get your eyes tested or get off the road.
You could paint the gate arms in dayglow orange and it wouldn't make any difference, it would still get hit by someone who claims that they can't see the color because it isn't dayglow yellow. Color of the arm has no bearing on this problem, impaired or incompetent drivers are the problem.
Instead of hitting a gate arm one day someone might hit a bicycle rider. Oh wait, someone already has and drove off!

[Topspinmo]

Explain how the Developer benefits?

Usually when contracting the contractor get 1/2

[Topspinmo]

You cannot see the one in Marshbend when the sun comes up in the morning. Nothing wrong with my eyes or driving. When the sun hits those colors in the morning they are invisible until you get abot 15 feet away from it.

But, you know the villages has gates right?

[JoMar]

I have been known to stop at an entry gate when the gate is laying on the ground. Just habit.

[Garywt]

I keep seeing this post and can’t figure out why so many guards are leaving the guard shacks and getting hit. Generally they just sit inside.

[theorem painter]

I agree about the arms being painted yellow. Anyone that knows anything about color theory knows that red (the arm) and green (the landscape) looks like brown. This is true, especially at dusk. The majority of us know the arms are there even if we are blinded by the sun or failing eyesight. Painting them yellow may alleviate some of the problem.