Walkers on the walking trail

[Arctic Fox]

We've discussed motorized vehicles and bikes on the walking trail, now I should be grateful for clarification on a related matter.

I have always been advised to walk on the left so that I can see any approaching traffic (whether that be cars, golf carts, e-bikes or pedal bikes) and take appropriate avoiding action if needed.

Yet there are some posts on TOTV suggesting that I should walk on the right if there is no motorized traffic in that location.

Why the difference? Surely if we all walked on the left all of the time then no-one would bump into each other and, should some traffic appear (even if it is just a pedal bike), we would know well in advance?

Thank you

[MX rider]

We've discussed motorized vehicles and bikes on the walking trail, now I should be grateful for clarification on a related matter.

I have always been advised to walk on the left so that I can see any approaching traffic (whether that be cars, golf carts, e-bikes or pedal bikes) and take appropriate avoiding action if needed.

Yet there are some posts on TOTV suggesting that I should walk on the right if there is no motorized traffic in that location.

Why the difference? Surely if we all walked on the left all of the time then no-one would bump into each other and, should some traffic appear (even if it is just a pedal bike), we would know well in advance?

Thank you

I've been a runner for over 40 years and always run against traffic so I can see whats coming. That includes the mm paths.
The only exception for me is sidewalks, I run on the right side

[Bill14564]

In the end, some people in the Villages are stubborn and are going to do what they want because that's the way they've always done it. We can discuss and debate what is best but we will never get everyone to agree on what is best or to follow it.

That said...

Because of the way we drive and typically walk in the US, the natural tendency is to walk to the right. You see this on sidewalks, in shopping malls, in airports, in boating rules, and at theme parks. When two pedestrians approach each other in the US it is typical for each to bear to their right. Without giving it any thought at all, Americans will typically stick to the right.

For vehicles of any type, driving to the right in the US is the law.

In the US we are taught to walk on the left, facing traffic, on a roadway. In many places this is the law as well. This enables the pedestrian to more easily see the traffic that is closest to them. Cars on the same side as the pedestrian come towards him from the front where he can see them. Cars approaching the pedestrian from the rear are on the far side of the street. This also makes it safer for the driver. If the driver sees the pedestrian looking at him then the driver has some confidence the pedestrian is aware of the car and less likely to suddenly move in front of the car.

Walking paths (sidewalks) are usually indistinguishable from designated walking/biking paths, particularly because bicycles are allowed on sidewalks.

Being predictable helps keep us safer. I can't know what you are thinking but if you act predictably (stay to the right/left, walk in a straight line, etc) then I can maneuver to avoid you.

Putting all the above together:
- Americans will likely walk to the right on any path (sidewalk) that doesn't carry automobile (or golf cart) traffic
- On a sidewalk or a walking/biking path, bicyclists will assume that walkers will stay to the right.
- When walking along a roadway (or a path that carries automobile or golf cart traffic) Americans will likely walk to the left
- On a roadway (or MMP here in the Villages) drivers expect walkers to be facing traffic
- Deviating from the above, typically by the pedestrian, creates an unpredictable situation which is unsafe for all.

There have been numerous threads on this topic which all have come to the same conclusion: People are going to do what they want to do regardless of what is safe. Then when there is an accident, those same people are going to stomp their feet and insist they were being the safest and the problem is with everyone else.

[metalic]

I have always been advised to walk on the left so that I can see any approaching traffic (whether that be cars, golf carts, e-bikes or pedal bikes) and take appropriate avoiding action if needed. Yet there are some posts on TOTV suggesting that I should walk on the right if there is no motorized traffic in that location.

I have no idea why some people feel the need to switch from walking on the left to walking on the right, unless they are worried that their first grade teacher is looking down on them and will hit them with a bolt of lightning if they don't do what they were told to do seventy years ago.

[margaretmattson]

There have been a few threads about this in the past few days. Seems everyone has differing opinions. I took the time to look up the Florida statutes regarding this to make certain I remain safe.

Here is what I found:

When a sidewalk or designated path is not available, a pedestrian (when feasible) must walk facing traffic keeping as far away as moving vehicles as possible.

A pedestrian must adhere to the same rules as motor vehicles. Obeying signs, stopping at traffic lights, and crossing intersections at posted crosswalks. No jaywallking.

I could not find any statutes that pertain to pedestrians on sidewalks or designated paths. This is probably why everyone does as they see fit.

I spoke to my neighbor this morning about this issue. She said she believes the disagreement comes based on where you lived before you came to the Villages. I believe she is correct. I can easily find as many people who agree with me as disagree. I was raised up north and from the time I was in Kindergarten, I was taught to walk on the far right. Everyone in my city, young to old, did it this way. Never any confusion, ever! Problems did not arise until I came to the Villages.

From this moment on, I am going to observe the walkers around me. If most are walking far right, I will follow suit, if most are walking far left, I will follow suit. I will always leave enough space around me to allow faster traffic to pass. I am willing to change. We live, we learn, we adapt.

[EdFNJ]

While this has been "discussed" umpteen times in the last days, weeks, months etc etc I think the real answer is in the form of a question:

Would you rather see what is coming AT you so you can mutually avoid being hit OR would you rather be surprised when someone or something rides or creeps up BEHIND you and kills you when you inadvertently take a step out in front of them?

Some of these electric golf carts and bikes are virtually silent so you could easily have no idea you are stepping out in front of one coming up behind you.

[Laker14]

We've discussed motorized vehicles and bikes on the walking trail, now I should be grateful for clarification on a related matter.

I have always been advised to walk on the left so that I can see any approaching traffic (whether that be cars, golf carts, e-bikes or pedal bikes) and take appropriate avoiding action if needed.

Yet there are some posts on TOTV suggesting that I should walk on the right if there is no motorized traffic in that location.

Why the difference? Surely if we all walked on the left all of the time then no-one would bump into each other and, should some traffic appear (even if it is just a pedal bike), we would know well in advance?

Thank you

First of all, let's clear up any confusion about what a "walking trail " is. At the Lake Miona Rec Center, there is a "walking trail" that is quite nice. It's only about the width of a sidewalk (a regular sidewalk, not the skinny sidewalks we have in TV) and bikes and e-bikes are NOT Allowed. I don't think dogs are allowed either, but I'm not sure. Since there is no vehicular traffic, we can accurately call this a "walking trail". It makes perfect sense to walk on the right.

However there are trails that do allow bikes and e-bikes. An example being the Hogeye Preserve Pathway. Note that it is not referred to as a "walking trail", but rather as a "pathway". Bikes and e-bikes are allowed. Golf car(t)s are not. Bikes and e-bikes are considerably faster than human foot traffic, and also rather quiet, so they can sneak up on you from behind.

Hence, it makes perfect sense on the "pathway" to walk on the left, so you can see approaching two-wheeled vehicles, and move to the left, into the grass if needed, and avoid being startled and maybe making a move unanticipated by the cyclist, that could lead to a collision.

[Arctic Fox]

First of all, let's clear up any confusion about what a "walking trail " is. At the Lake Miona Rec Center, there is a "walking trail" that is quite nice. It's only about the width of a sidewalk (a regular sidewalk, not the skinny sidewalks we have in TV) and bikes and e-bikes are NOT Allowed.

Thank you for clarifying, Laker14.

I was unaware that there were any "walkers only" trails in TV, and it certainly makes no sense for cyclists (e- and otherwise) to be on something so narrow.

[kansasr]

Thank you for clarifying, Laker14.

I was unaware that there were any "walkers only" trails in TV, and it certainly makes no sense for cyclists (e- and otherwise) to be on something so narrow.

The pathway that runs north from the Okahumpa Rec center and the pathway at Clarendon Rec center are two newer ones that are marked walking only, no bicycles.

[VApeople]

In the end, some people in the Villages are stubborn and are going to do what they want because that's the way they've always done it.


Yes, you are exactly right!

We often walk on the beautiful walking/biking trails south of Route 44 and we always keep to the right.

I have read about some walkers being hit from behind by bike riders, so I have decided to carry my hiking stick with a sharp metal tip in my left hand with the sharp tip pointing backwards. Hopefully, that will deter some bike riders from coming too close to me when they pass us.

[dnobles]

If you are successful with this, try to get them not to wear black clothing. ������������������������������

[Laker14]

Yes, you are exactly right!

We often walk on the beautiful walking/biking trails south of Route 44 and we always keep to the right.

I have read about some walkers being hit from behind by bike riders, so I have decided to carry my hiking stick with a sharp metal tip in my left hand with the sharp tip pointing backwards. Hopefully, that will deter some bike riders from coming too close to me when they pass us.

Wouldn't it be easier and safer just to walk on the left, facing oncoming bicycles ?

[Happydaz]

There have been a few threads about this in the past few days. Seems everyone has differing opinions. I took the time to look up the Florida statutes regarding this to make certain I remain safe.

Here is what I found:

When a sidewalk or designated path is not available, a pedestrian (when feasible) must walk facing traffic keeping as far away as moving vehicles as possible.

A pedestrian must adhere to the same rules as motor vehicles. Obeying signs, stopping at traffic lights, and crossing intersections at posted crosswalks. No jaywallking.

I could not find any statutes that pertain to pedestrians on sidewalks or designated paths. This is probably why everyone does as they see fit.

I spoke to my neighbor this morning about this issue. She said she believes the disagreement comes based on where you lived before you came to the Villages. I believe she is correct. I can easily find as many people who agree with me as disagree. I was raised up north and from the time I was in Kindergarten, I was taught to walk on the far right. Everyone in my city, young to old, did it this way. Never any confusion, ever! Problems did not arise until I came to the Villages.

From this moment on, I am going to observe the walkers around me. If most are walking far right, I will follow suit, if most are walking far left, I will follow suit. I will always leave enough space around me to allow faster traffic to pass. I am willing to change. We live, we learn, we adapt.

Sometimes I see people walking on the right on the multi modal paths and I assume they are new to the Villages and when I pass them I often let them know that golf carts and bicycles can come up very fast and they may be safer walking facing the traffic. I just mention it quickly and don’t wait for agreement as sometimes people are very set in their ways. But anyone with safety in mind knows it is best to walk facing oncoming traffic so you can move out of the way if necessary. Vehicles passing you from the opposite direction (behind you) have no problem as they pass you on the right and you are far enough to the left to not be in their path. In addition, when the path splits in two it is extremely dangerous to walk on the right path.

[Velvet]

Safety first, walking facing traffic allows you to see what’s coming at you. These silent e-somethings can sneak up behind you suddenly and easily, even in parking lots. Use your eyes. If you get hit you may be in the right - but guess who suffers?

[BobnBev]

While this has been "discussed" umpteen times in the last days, weeks, months etc etc I think the real answer is in the form of a question:

Would you rather see what is coming AT you so you can mutually avoid being hit OR would you rather be surprised when someone or something rides or creeps up BEHIND you and kills you when you inadvertently take a step out in front of them?

Some of these electric golf carts and bikes are virtually silent so you could easily have no idea you are stepping out in front of one coming up behind you.

Would you rather see what is coming AT you so you can mutually avoid being hit OR would you rather be surprised when someone or something rides or creeps up BEHIND you and kills you when you inadvertently take a step out in front of them? My mother had eyes in the back of her head. LOL:girlneener:

[VApeople]

Wouldn't it be easier and safer just to walk on the left, facing oncoming bicycles ?

It would not be easier or safer to walk on the left. The bikes often ride in the left lane and there would be a greater chance of a bike coming up behind us.

[margaretmattson]

It would not be easier or safer to walk on the left. The bikes often ride in the left lane and there would be a greater chance of a bike coming up behind us.

Marking the trails with signage is the best solution

[mikeycereal]

I just walk on the opposite side of oncoming people or bikes in the distance and look behind before changing sides.

[thevillager1988]

I walk a lot and understand the topic very well. It's my experience people generally are walking on the left when on a path that has motorized traffic and foot traffic (so correctly walking to face oncoming vehicles as if they were on a road back home). And generally they walk on the right when the path does not allow motorized vehicles (so treating it like a sidewalk back home, even though they encounter a periodic bike). I typically walk as I describe, because it's what I see generally. And every once in a while I have to change sides to avoid someone. It's really no hardship. I wave and say a cheerful "hello".

The only way we would ever get people to walk the same direction all the time would be to paint arrows or post signs on the paths showing which way pedestrians should face on either side of the road. So for now, my solution is a cheerful "hello".

[wawriwwawriw]

My two near misses GOLF CARS! If It wasn’t because I was facing them and was able to move over I will probably no be here.

[Ktots]

In the end, some people in the Villages are stubborn and are going to do what they want because that's the way they've always done it. We can discuss and debate what is best but we will never get everyone to agree on what is best or to follow it.

That said...

<snip>

Putting all the above together:
- Americans will likely walk to the right on any path (sidewalk) that doesn't carry automobile (or golf cart) traffic
- On a sidewalk or a walking/biking path, bicyclists will assume that walkers will stay to the right.
- When walking along a roadway (or a path that carries automobile or golf cart traffic) Americans will likely walk to the left
- On a roadway (or MMP here in the Villages) drivers expect walkers to be facing traffic
- Deviating from the above, typically by the pedestrian, creates an unpredictable situation which is unsafe for all.

There have been numerous threads on this topic which all have come to the same conclusion: People are going to do what they want to do regardless of what is safe. Then when there is an accident, those same people are going to stomp their feet and insist they were being the safest and the problem is with everyone else.

I agree with everything that you wrote and you are correct, people will always do whatever suits them, for their own reasons.
I will add:
-There are NO posted guidelines for the use of the Recreational Paths in TV, most likely because the powers that be know that people will not follow them anyway.

-The recreational paths where we lived up north had posted guidelines, at entrances to the path, directing pedestrians to walk to the right, as others seem to be familiar with, which is probably why many walkers and cyclist assume walkers “should” walk on the right.

-I have seen a few posts on this thread talking about cyclists “sneaking up on you”.
This is taken directly from Florida bicycle statute 316.2065:

10) A person propelling a bicycle upon and along a sidewalk, or across a roadway upon and along a crosswalk, shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing such pedestrian.

-Soooo…. there should be no “sneaking up”, but again, people do not comply and give audible warning, which is why walkers will insist on acting in their own best interests and walk to the left, assuming cyclist ride on the right.

-The statute also says that law enforcement may not issue a citation to bicyclists on private property, which I “think” would apply to the recreational paths in TV. However, if I was a cyclist, I would not want to risk being sued, should I “sneak up” on someone and have an incident that results in injury.

-My husband and I walk 3-5 miles daily with our dogs, on the rec paths. We change sides depending on where we are walking, be it close to a pond where a gator is resting on the bank, or near grasses or other vegetation where there may be snakes or gators. We check behind us before changing sides. When a cyclist does give warning they are coming, we raise a hand to let them know we hear them.

As with most things, the majority of people we encounter on the paths are pleasant and courteous and we are grateful for that and enjoy.

[jimdecastro]

We've discussed motorized vehicles and bikes on the walking trail, now I should be grateful for clarification on a related matter.

I have always been advised to walk on the left so that I can see any approaching traffic (whether that be cars, golf carts, e-bikes or pedal bikes) and take appropriate avoiding action if needed.

Yet there are some posts on TOTV suggesting that I should walk on the right if there is no motorized traffic in that location.

Why the difference? Surely if we all walked on the left all of the time then no-one would bump into each other and, should some traffic appear (even if it is just a pedal bike), we would know well in advance?

Thank you

Amen!!!!!

[jimdecastro]

In the end, some people in the Villages are stubborn and are going to do what they want because that's the way they've always done it. We can discuss and debate what is best but we will never get everyone to agree on what is best or to follow it.

That said...

Because of the way we drive and typically walk in the US, the natural tendency is to walk to the right. You see this on sidewalks, in shopping malls, in airports, in boating rules, and at theme parks. When two pedestrians approach each other in the US it is typical for each to bear to their right. Without giving it any thought at all, Americans will typically stick to the right.

For vehicles of any type, driving to the right in the US is the law.

In the US we are taught to walk on the left, facing traffic, on a roadway. In many places this is the law as well. This enables the pedestrian to more easily see the traffic that is closest to them. Cars on the same side as the pedestrian come towards him from the front where he can see them. Cars approaching the pedestrian from the rear are on the far side of the street. This also makes it safer for the driver. If the driver sees the pedestrian looking at him then the driver has some confidence the pedestrian is aware of the car and less likely to suddenly move in front of the car.

Walking paths (sidewalks) are usually indistinguishable from designated walking/biking paths, particularly because bicycles are allowed on sidewalks.

Being predictable helps keep us safer. I can't know what you are thinking but if you act predictably (stay to the right/left, walk in a straight line, etc) then I can maneuver to avoid you.

Putting all the above together:
- Americans will likely walk to the right on any path (sidewalk) that doesn't carry automobile (or golf cart) traffic
- On a sidewalk or a walking/biking path, bicyclists will assume that walkers will stay to the right.
- When walking along a roadway (or a path that carries automobile or golf cart traffic) Americans will likely walk to the left
- On a roadway (or MMP here in the Villages) drivers expect walkers to be facing traffic
- Deviating from the above, typically by the pedestrian, creates an unpredictable situation which is unsafe for all.

There have been numerous threads on this topic which all have come to the same conclusion: People are going to do what they want to do regardless of what is safe. Then when there is an accident, those same people are going to stomp their feet and insist they were being the safest and the problem is with everyone else.

An excellent post- as usual. I am always walk on the left regardless of the path. If somebody appears not to be moving to their left around me, I simply stop and let them walk around me and then I continue. It may seem passive aggressive, but I've been clipped by more than a few bicycles in my year and a half here.

[margaretmattson]

My two near misses GOLF CARS! If It wasn’t because I was facing them and was able to move over I will probably not be here.

So glad you are safe! From reading these threads, people have different opinions. If I were to guess, the drivers of the golf carts believed you were supposed to be on the far right, completely away from them. They then, would say it was your fault.

Neither of you is correct.
Neither wrong. I am beginning to understand that people visualize how they are supposed to maneuver on the paths based on what they have seen and are accustomed to in their hometowns. If it is not what you were taught in your hometown, it is a disaster waiting to happen!


Attached is a picture of my hometown. Pedestrians to the far right. Faster vehicles are given a wider portion of the path. Pedestrians never enter the path of faster vehicles and NEVER cross over to switch lanes.

I am not stating this is the correct way. All I am stating is this is all I have ever known. Willing to change to walking on the left, if need be.

I vote for signage!

Go ahead and blast me for posting the same picture more than once! Just trying to show people have seen different things. It doesn't make them wrong! And, certainly not a reason to be ridiculed, scolded, or almost killed when they thought they were being safe.

[Happydaz]

///

[DonRaleigh]

So glad you are safe! From reading these threads, people have different opinions. If I were to guess, the drivers of the golf carts believed you were supposed to be on the far right, completely away from them. They then, would say it was your fault.

Neither of you is correct.
Neither wrong. I am beginning to understand that people visualize how they are supposed to maneuver on the paths based on what they have seen and are accustomed to in their hometowns. If it is not what you were taught in your hometown, it is a disaster waiting to happen!

Attached is a picture of my hometown. Pedestrians to the far right. Faster vehicles are given a wider portion of the path. Pedestrians never enter the path of faster vehicles and NEVER cross over to switch lanes.

I am not stating this is the correct way. All I am stating is this is all I have ever known. Willing to change to walking on the left, if need be.

I vote for signage!

Go ahead and blast me for posting the same picture more than once! Just trying to show people have seen different things. It doesn't make them wrong! And, certainly not a reason to be ridiculed, scolded, or almost killed when they thought they were being safe.

LOL. If the picture were taken from the opposite direction it would show pedestrians to the far left. It doesn’t support a “right” or “left” position.

[Gunny2403]

Nope.

[srswans]

In the end, some people in the Villages are stubborn and are going to do what they want because that's the way they've always done it. We can discuss and debate what is best but we will never get everyone to agree on what is best or to follow it.

That said...

Because of the way we drive and typically walk in the US, the natural tendency is to walk to the right. You see this on sidewalks, in shopping malls, in airports, in boating rules, and at theme parks. When two pedestrians approach each other in the US it is typical for each to bear to their right. Without giving it any thought at all, Americans will typically stick to the right.

For vehicles of any type, driving to the right in the US is the law.

In the US we are taught to walk on the left, facing traffic, on a roadway. In many places this is the law as well. This enables the pedestrian to more easily see the traffic that is closest to them. Cars on the same side as the pedestrian come towards him from the front where he can see them. Cars approaching the pedestrian from the rear are on the far side of the street. This also makes it safer for the driver. If the driver sees the pedestrian looking at him then the driver has some confidence the pedestrian is aware of the car and less likely to suddenly move in front of the car.

Walking paths (sidewalks) are usually indistinguishable from designated walking/biking paths, particularly because bicycles are allowed on sidewalks.

Being predictable helps keep us safer. I can't know what you are thinking but if you act predictably (stay to the right/left, walk in a straight line, etc) then I can maneuver to avoid you.

Putting all the above together:
- Americans will likely walk to the right on any path (sidewalk) that doesn't carry automobile (or golf cart) traffic
- On a sidewalk or a walking/biking path, bicyclists will assume that walkers will stay to the right.
- When walking along a roadway (or a path that carries automobile or golf cart traffic) Americans will likely walk to the left
- On a roadway (or MMP here in the Villages) drivers expect walkers to be facing traffic
- Deviating from the above, typically by the pedestrian, creates an unpredictable situation which is unsafe for all.

There have been numerous threads on this topic which all have come to the same conclusion: People are going to do what they want to do regardless of what is safe. Then when there is an accident, those same people are going to stomp their feet and insist they were being the safest and the problem is with everyone else.

Well said - I agree.

Predictability is the key - it is safer if we all follow the same rules.

I have found that blind corners on pathways are dangerous when people are walking on the left - that’s the place where I have had the most surprises and close calls.

The biggest confusion appears to be, like noted above, that the rules are different for MPPs (left) and pathways (right). The confusion may stem from the two looking the same (asphalt). Streets and sidewalks have different rules too (left v. right) but visually the differences are quite obvious.

Since we don’t have a consensus and thus cannot predict what others will do, we just have to fall back to defensive driving/riding/walking. Pay attention and be prepared for anything on the MPPs and pathways.

Stay safe.

[dougawhite]

So glad you are safe! From reading these threads, people have different opinions. If I were to guess, the drivers of the golf carts believed you were supposed to be on the far right, completely away from them. They then, would say it was your fault.

Neither of you is correct.
Neither wrong. I am beginning to understand that people visualize how they are supposed to maneuver on the paths based on what they have seen and are accustomed to in their hometowns. If it is not what you were taught in your hometown, it is a disaster waiting to happen!


Attached is a picture of my hometown. Pedestrians to the far right. Faster vehicles are given a wider portion of the path. Pedestrians never enter the path of faster vehicles and NEVER cross over to switch lanes.

I am not stating this is the correct way. All I am stating is this is all I have ever known. Willing to change to walking on the left, if need be.

I vote for signage!

Go ahead and blast me for posting the same picture more than once! Just trying to show people have seen different things. It doesn't make them wrong! And, certainly not a reason to be ridiculed, scolded, or almost killed when they thought they were being safe.

Your photo is confusing and conflicts with your description. The photo shows a divided path with bikes to the left and walkers to the right. But just turn around and now bikes are to the right and walkers are to the left. Also, you said walkers never cross the bike trail, but there are several children on the grass on the opposite side from the walkers. They had to cross the bike path to get there.
No wonder everyone has their own opinion on this issue!

[srswans]

While this has been "discussed" umpteen times in the last days, weeks, months etc etc I think the real answer is in the form of a question:

Would you rather see what is coming AT you so you can mutually avoid being hit OR would you rather be surprised when someone or something rides or creeps up BEHIND you and kills you when you inadvertently take a step out in front of them?

Some of these electric golf carts and bikes are virtually silent so you could easily have no idea you are stepping out in front of one coming up behind you.

Agreed - it is quite dangerous when any pedestrian steps out without looking.

Pedestrians need to be pay attention and not randomly “change lanes” or turn around before looking.

Bicyclists need to announce as well. But this doesn’t always work when pedestrians have headphones on, are on a phone call, have poor hearing or are just plain oblivious.

This is important no matter which side you walk.

[glsatterlee]

While this has been "discussed" umpteen times in the last days, weeks, months etc etc I think the real answer is in the form of a question:

Would you rather see what is coming AT you so you can mutually avoid being hit OR would you rather be surprised when someone or something rides or creeps up BEHIND you and kills you when you inadvertently take a step out in front of them?

Some of these electric golf carts and bikes are virtually silent so you could easily have no idea you are stepping out in front of one coming up behind you.
I agree wholeheartedly!!

[Carlsondm]

I’m no expert, but I walk a lot. I walk on the left to see approaching cars, Amazon trucks, carts, bikes, etc., then I may cross over to the right to get out of their way. The side I walk on depends if there is room to move off to the side. Many paths have landscaping right up to the path, like near underpasses. Then I walk on the right. So many of our roads and paths have a hump, that my hips appreciate me walking so one leg doesn’t get longer than the other. : )
I prefer the left, but judge my surroundings. Besides, when you are looking at the traffic ..you can wave and see if they are on the phone.

[glsatterlee]

Marking the trails with signage is the best solution
I love the sign, we should push The Villages to put it up on the Hogeye preserve.

[TerryCamlin]

It makes perfect sense. Bikers do not want to get killed on modular paths where golf carts can be flying by at 30 mph!! Obviously you do not bike.

[Joe C.]

Ever been to an airport or large department store? The escalators are always going upstairs on the right and down on the left. The moving walkways are forward on the right and coming back facing opposite. Kind of a de facto situation?

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Your photo is confusing and conflicts with your description. The photo shows a divided path with bikes to the left and walkers to the right. But just turn around and now bikes are to the right and walkers are to the left. Also, you said walkers never cross the bike trail, but there are several children on the grass on the opposite side from the walkers. They had to cross the bike path to get there.
No wonder everyone has their own opinion on this issue!

The bicyclists who are riding within the margins of their path, will ride to the far right of their path. But going in that direction, that path is on the left of the trail. The walkers who are walking within the margins of their path, will walk to the far right of their path. If you turn it upside down, the information will be the same. The bicyclists will still ride on the right side of their own path, however now their path on the right. The walkers' path is on the left, but the walkers are still walking on the right side of their own path.

It's a split trail. We have nature trails like that in Connecticut, that replaced an old closed-down railroad through the state. They're not quite as well-marked as that, but there's some signage and everyone knows what to do.

The trails have crosswalks in various spots, and people are allowed to walk ACROSS the path. They're just not allowed to walk along the path in the bike lane, and bikes aren't allowed to ride along the path in the pedestrian lane.

[bark4me]

We've discussed motorized vehicles and bikes on the walking trail, now I should be grateful for clarification on a related matter.

I have always been advised to walk on the left so that I can see any approaching traffic (whether that be cars, golf carts, e-bikes or pedal bikes) and take appropriate avoiding action if needed.

Yet there are some posts on TOTV suggesting that I should walk on the right if there is no motorized traffic in that location.

Why the difference? Surely if we all walked on the left all of the time then no-one would bump into each other and, should some traffic appear (even if it is just a pedal bike), we would know well in advance?

Thank you
I totally agree with you. Walking on the left would be the best.

[margaretmattson]

LOL. If the picture were taken from the opposite direction it would show pedestrians to the far left. It doesn’t support a “right” or “left” position.

To use the marked pedestrian path, you walk on the FAR RIGHT, either coming or going. Like on sidewalks. You never have to worry about the faster traffic because you are never going to enter or cross over their marked path. And the faster traffic is never going to enter the pedestrian path.
There is no fear of being hit from behind.

My main point was:that people have seen different things and signage is probably the best solution.

From your post, you are not liking this type of marking. No objection from me! Just hoping that we can find a "best solution" that fits all and then post signage on the paths so everyone can follow. I am willing to change.

[Carlsondm]

I have no idea why some people feel the need to switch from walking on the left to walking on the right, unless they are worried that their first grade teacher is looking down on them and will hit them with a bolt of lightning if they don't do what they were told to do seventy years ago.
I walk 10+ miles daily, mostly on the left, but change sides if vehicles are coming and there is room to get off the road/path on the other side, shade is on the other side and no one is around, to avoid snakes and gators, and to vary the angle of the path I am walking on for leg relief. Walkers usually have a reason for changing sides. Just ask them.

[Arctic Fox]

A propos of nothing, it always used to be the rule on ships to walk anticlockwise round the promenade deck, and there would be arrows on the walls indicating this.

The latest cruise ships lack these signs, so a few people tend to walk clockwise, which can cause problems in the narrower sections should you have to pass them there.

Despite having a constant stream of the other 95% coming towards them, they generally won't turn round and join the general flow, and you see them lap after lap.

You can imagine the chaos when Mrs Fox gets out there on her e-bike.

[Bill1701]

I don't care which side you walk on, just don't walk side-by-side and take up the whole path.

[GypsyRN]

While this has been "discussed" umpteen times in the last days, weeks, months etc etc I think the real answer is in the form of a question:

Would you rather see what is coming AT you so you can mutually avoid being hit OR would you rather be surprised when someone or something rides or creeps up BEHIND you and kills you when you inadvertently take a step out in front of them?

Some of these electric golf carts and bikes are virtually silent so you could easily have no idea you are stepping out in front of one coming up behind you.

Amen...the only way to walk amongst the increasing number of inattentive, idiotic cart drivers in TV is by walking against their travel. I can always (and I have had occasions to do so lately) dodge these drivers by jumping out of their way, rather than pray that they won't be distracted while beating down on me from the rear. If you're of the mind to walk with traffic while on the MMP, then when you get hit, and are injured or killed, don't go blaming your attacker for their lack of peripheral vision!! You are the problem, not them. Walk the paths with me for 5 minutes and you'll change your point of view...literally!!

[ron32162]

If I had this many questions for something that simple I would stay in

[Two Bills]

On a side walk, where bicycles share, remove earbuds blasting Def Leppard if you want to hear whats coming from behind, and if you have a dog with you, keep on a short leash. You have no control over it on one of those extendable leashes.

[Bwanajim]

I walk my dog on the left. I believe all dogs are trained to walk on the left. As a sidenote, if you’re riding a break, please give me a holler or ring the bell when you come up behind me.

[VApeople]

I walk my dog on the left. I believe all dogs are trained to walk on the left. As a sidenote, if you’re riding a break, please give me a holler or ring the bell when you come up behind me.

You can do whatever you want, and you should be prepared for others, either walkers or bikers, to do whatever they feel like doing.

When we ride our bikes, my wife usually goes first and slows down and rings her bell when passing others, so we would not be a problem for you and your dog.

When we walk, some bikers whiz past going pretty fast. You should figure out how you plan to deal with bikers like that as well. Maybe keep your dog off the trail to the right as you walk.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

A propos of nothing, it always used to be the rule on ships to walk anticlockwise round the promenade deck, and there would be arrows on the walls indicating this.

The latest cruise ships lack these signs, so a few people tend to walk clockwise, which can cause problems in the narrower sections should you have to pass them there.

Despite having a constant stream of the other 95% coming towards them, they generally won't turn round and join the general flow, and you see them lap after lap.

You can imagine the chaos when Mrs Fox gets out there on her e-bike.

Wow that actually brings back memories of moving in a counter-clockwise circle - at the ice and roller rinks. We always did that. And stayed primarily to our right. If you were on the left, you were either passing, or you were skating "patch" in the center of the ring. On Friday nights everyone would be going around counter-clockwise, faster skaters pass on the left, until the DJ called for everyone to go in reverse.

[PiscisMagnus]

I think the above response by @Bill14564 (Post #3) was comprehensive and written well. It is certainly consistent with my multi-use path use in two large cities over the last 38 years. Before buying a house in TV, I lived in Henderson, NV for 5 years and in Ann Arbor, MI for 33 years. I was on the Bicycle Advisory Committee to the City of Henderson for 1 year. Neither city permitted golf carts on the multi-purpose paved paths. But as far as cyclists/runners/walkers all on the same path, staying to the right and passing on the left was simple to remember and understand, and accidents were rare.

Although I didn't find any specific laws governing Florida multi-use paths on a simple search, I did find a guidance from Bike/Walk Central Florida, a regional advocacy organization for cyclists and pedestrians, whose etiquette guidance for trail use is very familiar to me. They advocate Staying right and Passing left. Forum rules did not allow me to include the URL link, but it is easily found.

So cycling, running, and walking on the right side of multi-modal paths in TV feels very natural to me, even in the presence of golf carts coming from behind. Until there is a formal rule stating I have to walk/run on the left side, I'll stay on the right.

Are there any data from other cities where golf carts share the multi-use path with cyclists and pedestrians (walkers/runners)? It might be worth a look to see whether walking left vs right is the better approach for overall path safety. Hopefully any real decisions or rules about safe path use will be based on data from other municipalities and not on other users' personal fears or opinions about what is "common sense".