Bad cart vs car accident

[BarryRX]

It looks like a pretty serious cart versus car accident at the corner of St. Charles and Pennecamp. Two people lying in the street with medics caring for them. I pray they'll be ok. Let's be real careful out there folks!

[raynan]

Med flight just airlifted patients.

[George Bieniaszek]

I have only been a Villager for 2 years and it seems that people are way more aggressive with their driving this year over last year, both in their cars and driving golf carts. I just dont understand why everyone is in such a hurry in a retirement community.

Hoping that the people injured will be OK!

[spk7951]

We were just finishing golf at Tarpon Boil when we heard all the sirens. We could not take a left to get home our usual route as Community Watch had St Charles blocked and was diverting traffic away from the accident.

[Irishmen]

Pulling out of Cane garden and taking a left yesterday took forever. I can see where where people wait for a spot for a while then gun it when their patience runs out. Your right What's the hurry?

[Happinow]

I have only been a Villager for 2 years and it seems that people are way more aggressive with their driving this year over last year, both in their cars and driving golf carts. I just dont understand why everyone is in such a hurry in a retirement community.

Hoping that the people injured will be OK!

I don't understand it either. What could possibly be that important that you have to endanger your life or the life of others?? So if your a little late for your golf time, so what if you are late for your exercise class, or swim class, or painting class.....is it really worth it? We don't heal as fast as we use to and don't bounce as easily as we use to.

[Happyliz]

My friend had a terrible getting to my home in Buttonwood. He knew there was an accident but wasn't sure what was involved. Thanks for the info. Hope the people are O.K.

[graciegirl]

That corner is very, very heavily traveled. I swear I have heard of many accidents there.

[Trish Miller]

I really think they should put a light there or make it a 3-way stop.

[FMF Doc]

That corner has seen MANY MANY accidents. I think one was deadly, maybe more than one.

Fatality was at Southern Star and St. Charles.

[renielarson]

The corner of Pennecamp and St. Charles has not had many, many accidents. This is the first one I'm aware of and I drive St. Charles daily since I live in Buttonwood. I'll be looking in the Leesburg Daily Commercial and the Orlando Sentinel in the morning to hopefully read the details because I bet The Daily Sun has nothing!

[graciegirl]

I really think they should put a light there or make it a 3-way stop.

I do too. That whole St. Charles loop is really risky. Golfers playing the Championship course have to cross over St. Charles twice and people get antsy and pull out because of so much traffic.

[graciegirl]

The corner of Pennecamp and St. Charles has not had many, many accidents. This is the first one I'm aware of and I drive St. Charles daily since I live in Buttonwood. I'll be looking in the Leesburg Daily Commercial and the Orlando Sentinel in the morning to hopefully read the details because I bet The Daily Sun has nothing!

It has been pointed out the death was at the intersection of Southern Star and St. Charles and I was wrong. In a couple of days this news will appear in the Sun.

[John_W]

I was there soon after it happened. The way the vehicles were positioned, the cart was facing northbound with damage to the right front but was in the southbound lane of St. Charles at the intersection of Pennecamp. The car was in the southbound lane of St. Charles and had damage to the front end. If this is the way the vehicles actually collided, then it appears the cart was turning left into Pennecamp and when it crossed the opposite lane a southbound car hit them.

Cars are usually backed up coming out of Pennecamp and many cars are usually turning into Pennecamp. In fact, the half mile or so stretch of St. Charles at the intersection of Pennecamp, Buttonwood and Tamarind Grove are always busy and congested. It's not a good situation for someone with slow reflexes.

[TommyT]

at the corner of St. Charles and Pennecamp

Two weeks ago, my wife and I spent a week in our Pennecamp home. We traveled this intersection many times in our cart. One fine day, we pulled into a line of cars and carts trying to get out from Pennecamp Drive and when it was our turn, we pulled up and waited as traffic was heavy in both directions. From behind I heard this screeching voice to "pull up". Not once but several times. I turned around to see two women in a cart trying to get me to pull forward "into the cart path" so they could make their right turn. Well in case you didn't know, I've got a temper and said, "Lady, NO WAY!!" When traffic was clear we began to make our left turn to cross St. Charles onto the cart path toward Bailey Trl, when this speedster came flying by making her right turn... I told my wife "WOW, what nerve." My wife said she was proud of me not going back there and decking the lady. She said she thought of doing it for me.... :22yikes: And my wife is not a violent person..

[Penguin]

I don't understand it either. What could possibly be that important that you have to endanger your life or the life of others?? So if your a little late for your golf time, so what if you are late for your exercise class, or swim class, or painting class.....is it really worth it? We don't heal as fast as we use to and don't bounce as easily as we use to.

I dont think it has to do with being late or not, I think people are not driving defensively anymore.They are just whipping around whether in cars or in golf carts and not anticipating the other guy might not be paying attention. This could also translate to people who ride bikes.Everyone should take a motorcycle safety course because they preach defensive operation of the motorcycle. Dont only pay attention to what your doing but what the other guy might do.

[pooh]

Is this what happened? This is from the Sumter County incident page....MAJOR ACCIDENT
03/19/12 17:32 (THE VILLAGES - 800 TRS PS 2) SQUAD 51 ON SCENE MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT GOLF CART VS BICYCLE REQUEST AIR SUPPORT AEROMED 3 RESPONDING ENGINE COMPANY 40 LANDING ZONE [FLA074]

[Happinow]

I dont think it has to do with being late or not, I think people are not driving defensively anymore.They are just whipping around whether in cars or in golf carts and not anticipating the other guy might not be paying attention. This could also translate to people who ride bikes.Everyone should take a motorcycle safety course because they preach defensive operation of the motorcycle. Dont only pay attention to what your doing but what the other guy might do.

Good advice Penguin....

[Midge538]

I had a golf cart (since 2004).
I drove it cautiously .. 'very cautiously.'
I had scary runins (almost) every time I took it out.
I sold it a month ago.

[John_W]

Is this what happened? This is from the Sumter County incident page....MAJOR ACCIDENT
03/19/12 17:32 (THE VILLAGES - 800 TRS PS 2) SQUAD 51 ON SCENE MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT GOLF CART VS BICYCLE REQUEST AIR SUPPORT AEROMED 3 RESPONDING ENGINE COMPANY 40 LANDING ZONE [FLA074]

1732 is 5:32pm, this accident was about 3pm, also didn't see any bicycle and did see two people on stretchers laying in the road, and definitely saw a damaged car. Your accident is a bike and cart.

[George Bieniaszek]

I really think they should put a light there or make it a 3-way stop.

I respectfully disagree that a stop sign or traffic light should be installed at this intersection.

The Villages road system was designed so as to not have driveways or other things to imped the flow of traffic on these main roads. If a traffic light is approved for installation on Pennecamp/St Charles, why not at Buttonwood/St. Charles also. Then people living near Southern Star/St. Charles would want one there also. Then how about people living off Canal Street, or Odell, etc etc etc... Will these traffic lights be needed during the off season when the "snowbirds" head home?

The Villages would turn into a giant traffic mess.

These roads are accommodating many vehicles, from commercial trucks, to cars, golf carts, bicycles, joggers, etc. and work well as long as we all be a little curtious.

S L O W D O W N, drive defensively, be aware of the people around you sharing the road and anticipate a potential careless unintentional move by the many new residents both perminent and part time trying to figure their way around town.

[pooh]

1732 is 5:32pm, this accident was about 3pm, also didn't see any bicycle and did see two people on stretchers laying in the road, and definitely saw a damaged car. Your accident is a bike and cart.

I didn't check the time everyone was talking about the first accident, sorry, but now it seems we've had another cart involved accident....DAM!

[Happinow]

I respectfully disagree that a stop sign or traffic light should be installed at this intersection.

The Villages road system was designed so as to not have driveways or other things to imped the flow of traffic on these main roads. If a traffic light is approved for installation on Pennecamp/St Charles, why not at Buttonwood/St. Charles also. Then people living near Southern Star/St. Charles would want one there also. Then how about people living off Canal Street, or Odell, etc etc etc... Will these traffic lights be needed during the off season when the "snowbirds" head home?

The Villages would turn into a giant traffic mess.

These roads are accommodating many vehicles, from commercial trucks, to cars, golf carts, bicycles, joggers, etc. and work well as long as we all be a little curtious.

S L O W D O W N, drive defensively, be aware of the people around you sharing the road and anticipate a potential careless unintentional move by the many new residents both perminent and part time trying to figure their way around town.

Everyone needs to remember "you were a newbie once too." please extend some patience to those that are trying to learn the lay of the land. :lipsrsealed::lipsrsealed:

[graciegirl]

I respectfully disagree that a stop sign or traffic light should be installed at this intersection.

The Villages road system was designed so as to not have driveways or other things to imped the flow of traffic on these main roads. If a traffic light is approved for installation on Pennecamp/St Charles, why not at Buttonwood/St. Charles also. Then people living near Southern Star/St. Charles would want one there also. Then how about people living off Canal Street, or Odell, etc etc etc... Will these traffic lights be needed during the off season when the "snowbirds" head home?

The Villages would turn into a giant traffic mess.

These roads are accommodating many vehicles, from commercial trucks, to cars, golf carts, bicycles, joggers, etc. and work well as long as we all be a little curtious.

S L O W D O W N, drive defensively, be aware of the people around you sharing the road and anticipate a potential careless unintentional move by the many new residents both perminent and part time trying to figure their way around town.

Your post really makes us think about this. A traffic light is not an easy solution it appears. Perhaps when the loop is built out and the construction traffic goes away, things will improve. I hope so.

[John_W]

I respectfully disagree that a stop sign or traffic light should be installed at this intersection.

The Villages road system was designed so as to not have driveways or other things to imped the flow of traffic on these main roads. If a traffic light is approved for installation on Pennecamp/St Charles, why not at Buttonwood/St. Charles also. Then people living near Southern Star/St. Charles would want one there also. Then how about people living off Canal Street, or Odell, etc etc etc... Will these traffic lights be needed during the off season when the "snowbirds" head home?

The Villages would turn into a giant traffic mess...



I don't like that idea either, except it could be done on a lesser scale. If you notice on weekends when we don't have all the construction trucks it's so much nicer on St. Charles. Put lights at the corner of Pennecamp, Buttonwood and Tamarind Grove but after 5pm weekdays and on Saturday and Sunday they just flash amber on St. Charles and flash red on the side roads. Most of the congestion occurs during weekdays during working hours. Otherwise it's too late to build traffic circles since homes occupy the corners at these intersections. Other than that, there is really nothing else that can be done short of putting speed bumps on St. Charles prior to these intersections, which I wouldn't be for.

[applesoffh]

I hope everyone will pull through without lasting injuries. Frankly, the roundabouts scare the hell out of me. I moved here in January, and have yet to take the car anywhere other than 466A and Wildwood. No matter how much I watch the traffic patterns, or watch my husband navigate the circles, I can't get over my fear. I understand WHY there are roundabouts here, I've read the pamphlet we were given, but it hasn't helped. We have yet to buy a golf cart.

[champion6]

Is this what happened? This is from the Sumter County incident page....MAJOR ACCIDENT
03/19/12 17:32 (THE VILLAGES - 800 TRS PS 2) SQUAD 51 ON SCENE MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT GOLF CART VS BICYCLE REQUEST AIR SUPPORT AEROMED 3 RESPONDING ENGINE COMPANY 40 LANDING ZONE [FLA074]This not the accident reported in this thread. This cart vs. bicycle accident occurred on Buena Vista. We drove passed it, but I can't remember the cross street.

[Pturner]

I hope the people who were injured in the accident are okay. If there is any news about how they are doing, someone please let us know.

[PennBF]

It happened a Sunday on the cart path that runs next to 466. I believe the
cart ran into the bicycle(s).

[PennBF]

We have a few conversations regarding the change in traffic between the summer months and the "snow bird" months. One possible reason for the
lack of courtesy during the snow bird time is that quite a few are renters
and have a sense of entitlement as they paid for a vacation and don't have
the same pride of The Villages as the full time residents. There is a definite
difference in the manners on the road between the summer and snow bird
time. Not sure if it is really a sense of entitlement or just a lack of knowledge of the circles, etc. This lack of manners extends to the golf carts
and is not restricted to cars. I guess the answer is for the full time residents to realize there is a difference and to take that into consideration when they drive either the car or the cart. :mornincoffee:

[dillywho]

We have a few conversations regarding the change in traffic between the summer months and the "snow bird" months. One possible reason for the
lack of courtesy during the snow bird time is that quite a few are renters
and have a sense of entitlement as they paid for a vacation and don't have
the same pride of The Villages as the full time residents. There is a definite
difference in the manners on the road between the summer and snow bird
time. Not sure if it is really a sense of entitlement or just a lack of knowledge of the circles, etc. This lack of manners extends to the golf carts
and is not restricted to cars. I guess the answer is for the full time residents to realize there is a difference and to take that into consideration when they drive either the car or the cart. :mornincoffee:

Unfortunately, the lack of courtesy is not limited to cars and carts. We had family in from Malabar this weekend. We were in Publix Saturday afternoon and I have never encountered so many downright rude people as there were in the store that day in all the 8 years we have been here. Even our daughter noticed and commented on it. She asked me if TV is this way all the time now.

I certainly hope not.:22yikes:

[VillageSitter]

Our home backs up to St. Charles and saw all the emergency vehicles flying past this afternoon, wondering what had happened. My husband and I constantly comment on the speed of several vehicles as they pass, mostly construction traffic, some cars and the trash trucks. Some are doing 50mph and over. We knew there was an accident waiting to happen. It's not a good mix, the gold carts and speeding cars and trucks. I will definitely say a prayer for those involved in the accident today and hope this maybe a lesson to those out there in a hurry. Life is to short...take your time and stop putting others at danger, please!

[smalldog]

Smalldog Sez
when returning home from our golf at Redfish Run we noticed a state troper parked on the golf course with his radar 'taking pictures':pepper2: at the scene of the accident
where we had encountered it :lipsrsealed: on our way to the golf course

[Barefoot]

Everyone needs to remember "you were a newbie once too." please extend some patience to those that are trying to learn the lay of the land.

I don't think you need to worry about Newbies being treated with patience. Most residents are happy to help out anyone seeking directions.

However, even Newbies have a responsibility to drive defensively and to not endanger other cars and carts. If you're a Newbie driving a golf cart, and you don't know where the tunnels or paths are, pull over on the grass and watch other drivers. I've seen way too many golf cart drivers charge across Country Roads because they don't take the time to find the tunnels.

[Ohiogirl]

I think the Villages has the worst drivers (both carts and cars) and sometimes bicyclists, that I've ever encountered, and I've lived a lot of places.

Yesterday, I was driving my cart north on Buena Vista, stopped at Old Mill Run (another dangerous intersection - lots of traffic at certain times). a car headed w/b from Old Mill going right into the traffic circle stopped at the path crossing and motioned the women on bikes to go across. They did, talking to each other the whole time, and never even glancing right into the e/b lane, where a car was coming out of the traffic circle. That car had to brake. I don't think the women ever even noticed it.

One of the problems here is that car drivers don't seem to realize all the time where they have the right of way. Most are probably trying to be nice, but stopping where they shouldn't sets up the above scenarios. Many cart drivers also appear to think that because they are in a cart, they have the right of way, particularly when merging left into the traffic lane. Just because they signal or stick out their hand doesn't mean they can go ahead. THEY are the ones merging and need to yield the right of way - They need to be sure there is room to merge, and remember the cars are going faster than the carts.

I know some of these drivers are just trying to be nice, but lately there have been drivers in cars with heavily tinted windows motioning me to go ahead and cross. I can't see into their driver's side windows and can barely tell sometimes what they are trying to do. They don't seem to realize that they can see out but I can't see in. I wish everyone would just learn the rules of the road and follow them.

[graciegirl]

I don't think you need to worry about Newbies being treated with patience. Most residents are happy to help out anyone seeking directions.

However, even Newbies have a responsibility to drive defensively and to not endanger other cars and carts. If you're a Newbie driving a golf cart, and you don't know where the tunnels or paths are, pull over on the grass and watch other drivers. I've seen way too many golf cart drivers charge across Country Roads because they don't take the time to find the tunnels.

I so agree. My opinion is that new people need to familarize themselves with the area by reading the maps and driving in their cars for awhile until they are comfortable with how to get places. It is MUCH more confusing and thus more dangerous to drive your golf cart at first because it is NOT the same route at all and you have to note tunnels and sometimes go the opposite direction to get to a tunnel to get to the side of the street the path is on. If you are a timid or not extremely experienced driver, it is better to drive a car. I think a lot of people who haven't driven cars or not driven much think golf carts are easier. They are not.

I have seen golf carts going down Morse the wrong way, going into traffic circles and not watching gates and cars when crossing.

So Happinow, take your time. I know you have posted that you were nervous about driving to TV from the Orlando airport, so I am guessing that driving in unfamiliar areas is challenging.

[Penguin]

I think the Villages has the worst drivers (both carts and cars) and sometimes bicyclists, that I've ever encountered, and I've lived a lot of places.

Yesterday, I was driving my cart north on Buena Vista, stopped at Old Mill Run (another dangerous intersection - lots of traffic at certain times). a car headed w/b from Old Mill going right into the traffic circle stopped at the path crossing and motioned the women on bikes to go across. They did, talking to each other the whole time, and never even glancing right into the e/b lane, where a car was coming out of the traffic circle. That car had to brake. I don't think the women ever even noticed it.

One of the problems here is that car drivers don't seem to realize all the time where they have the right of way. Most are probably trying to be nice, but stopping where they shouldn't sets up the above scenarios. Many cart drivers also appear to think that because they are in a cart, they have the right of way, particularly when merging left into the traffic lane. Just because they signal or stick out their hand doesn't mean they can go ahead. THEY are the ones merging and need to yield the right of way - They need to be sure there is room to merge, and remember the cars are going faster than the carts.

I know some of these drivers are just trying to be nice, but lately there have been drivers in cars with heavily tinted windows motioning me to go ahead and cross. I can't see into their driver's side windows and can barely tell sometimes what they are trying to do. They don't seem to realize that they can see out but I can't see in. I wish everyone would just learn the rules of the road and follow them.

This is why even more so to DRIVE DEFENSIVELY and watch out for the other driver and expect them to do something stupid. Believe me it will keep you safer,I know, I taught a motorcycle safety class for years and defensive driving saves lives. " Lets be careful out there"

[spk7951]

The corner of Pennecamp and St. Charles has not had many, many accidents. This is the first one I'm aware of and I drive St. Charles daily since I live in Buttonwood. I'll be looking in the Leesburg Daily Commercial and the Orlando Sentinel in the morning to hopefully read the details because I bet The Daily Sun has nothing!


I hope you did not bet too much. Page A12 of today's Daily Sun has a photo and brief story about the accident.

[Yorio]

I didn't see it happen but must have happened just a minute before as there was no ambulance yet and the car behind the accident car stopped to help out. It happened to be my neighbor though I didn't know at that time. I saw the New Jersey plate of the accident car, mangled passenger side of the golf cart, shoes scattered about and a man lying down motionless on the road. A man from Ambassador cart was helping with what seemed like a wet towel. There were other people from the area helping so when the car ahead of me was able to pass through, I turned right on to Pennecamp. It was surreal. I pray for the man but I believe he has head injury as well as broken up bones. St. Charles and Pennecamp is definitely a dangerous intersection. I definitely feel some cars are going well passed speed limit on St. Charles. On many an occasion I was tailgated. Previously, it was contractors. Not anymore. If you tailgate me, remember, I will slow down further so please let sleeping dog lie. I get concerned going out from Pennecamp on to St. Charles on golf cart. Do you think some people think it's I-75 or 95?

[Mikeod]

I agree traffic problems increase during these months. I attribute it to several factors.

1. We have seasonal/temporary residents trying to cram as much into their time here as possible. Some bring their driving habits from where they live "up north". That, coupled with shorter days with fewer hours of comfortable temperatures, leads to rushing around. I observed an instance where a cart was waiting to turn left off Stillwater. A car behind them didn't want to wait a few seconds and pulled into the cart lane to pass on the right and cut off a cart that was already there. Jeez!

2. We have renters "on vacation" who are also trying to get as much for their money as possible and have no vested interest in TV other than as a destination. They are going where they want to go and don't get in their way. The other day I had a woman (on a cell phone) cross the double yellow line on Canal near Odell to pass my cart so she would be in front of me at the RED light. Unfortunately, for her, there was a car turning onto Canal creating a potential head-on collision.

3. Paradoxically, we have seasonal residents, visitors, etc., who are trying to fit in amicably. They are some of the ones who stop and let carts cross where they shouldn't, causing confusion and creating dangerous situations for car and cart alike. This feeds the perception among some cart drivers that they have the right of way at intersections or on roadways.

4. We have construction going on in several areas. In the past, TV built neighborhoods completely and then sold the houses. The last few years they have returned to the prior pattern of selling lots and then constructing the house. As a result, construction traffic is spread out over several neighborhoods and that traffic is now on more residential streets than previously. Construction vehicles largely don't pay as much attention to speed as residents do. Deadlines, dontcha know.

The best advice has already been posted above. Drive defensively. Assume the other guy/gal is an idiot and be prepared for them to do something unusual. Lately I've noticed golf carts with lights on in the daytime similar to daytime running lights on cars. That seems like it may be a good idea during the "high" season at least. May reduce the range on electric carts by a little, but shouldn't be significant.

[Maryland Girl]

I think the Villages has the worst drivers (both carts and cars) and sometimes bicyclists, that I've ever encountered, and I've lived a lot of places.

Yesterday, I was driving my cart north on Buena Vista, stopped at Old Mill Run (another dangerous intersection - lots of traffic at certain times). a car headed w/b from Old Mill going right into the traffic circle stopped at the path crossing and motioned the women on bikes to go across. They did, talking to each other the whole time, and never even glancing right into the e/b lane, where a car was coming out of the traffic circle. That car had to brake. I don't think the women ever even noticed it.

One of the problems here is that car drivers don't seem to realize all the time where they have the right of way. Most are probably trying to be nice, but stopping where they shouldn't sets up the above scenarios. Many cart drivers also appear to think that because they are in a cart, they have the right of way, particularly when merging left into the traffic lane. Just because they signal or stick out their hand doesn't mean they can go ahead. THEY are the ones merging and need to yield the right of way - They need to be sure there is room to merge, and remember the cars are going faster than the carts.

I know some of these drivers are just trying to be nice, but lately there have been drivers in cars with heavily tinted windows motioning me to go ahead and cross. I can't see into their driver's side windows and can barely tell sometimes what they are trying to do. They don't seem to realize that they can see out but I can't see in. I wish everyone would just learn the rules of the road and follow them.

EXACTLY!

Right after reading this thread, my husband and I left to take our dogs to Doggie Do Run Run. We went down Parr to Belvedere. Right before getting to the golf cart path near the library, which crosses Parr, I always slow down because I've seen carts zip across this path. There was a cart there that started to roll out. Since I was driving very slowly, I tapped my brakes in case the cart kept coming. He stopped. I then drove over the cart path and stopped at the stop sign before pulling out onto Belvedere. For this, we received the following: the cart driver bellowed out, "You have a stop sign, dumb a__!! Is oncoming traffic supposed to stop before the cart path to give the carts the right of way? Now I ask you, who was the dumb a__????

[mrdills]

Remember Golf carts don't have the right away, first of all the golf carts are driving on city roads and the Villages agree to let this go on. I knew this was going to be a problem. The carts pull out on the streets out of the diamond lanes any time they wish without signing and its just a matter of time before some one gets hurt. I think its time for all of us to remember the The Villages gave us this privilege to drive our golf cart on these roads and they can take that away just as easy. Drive smart, you don't want to argue with a car, you might be right but you also might be dead wrong.

[Happinow]

My husband and I already agreed that we would find the route we were going to take with the cart, to and from where ever, and make sure we know how to get there via golf cart. We assume there must be an underground tunnel or similar to get from Sanibel to Subway in the plaza on 466A. (Not sure the name of the plaza) We have seen golf carts there but don't know how to get across 466A. In due time, we will learn. The best part is we will be coming to TV when everyone else is leaving to go back North. It should afford us somewhat of an easier time making our way around. I also think that a good time to explore is before 10 AM. There seems to be much less traffic. I am a timid driver but not afraid to explore. If we have any questions as to how to get from point A to point B there is lots of help out there from everyone, which I'm grateful for!

[bestmickey]

I suggest that one thing that could help with driver ignorance among visitors/renters (of which I'm one) is that The Villages hand out paperwork to all of us who pick up the temporary resident ID cards. I don't know how you could best reach those renters who don't bother to obtain those ID's. But, the paperwork should explain the rules of the road(s) in TV. For example, how to use a roundabout (while I have them where I live in upstate NY, not all communities have them, so lots of folks are not familiar with driving them). It should also be explained that cars/autos ALWAYS have the right-of-way, how to use and perhaps find the tunnels, etc. I also suggest that homeowners who rent out their properties should have these handouts available for all renters to view, especially if you're renting w/a golf cart for use. After all, you should want to protect your own property.

While driving defensively, we have to be cognizant of the fact that we're driving in a community composed of mostly elderly people. Many of these people aren't paying attention, are losing some of their "faculties", and some get easily confused, etc. As others have said, slow down, pay attention, and pray you make it to your destination(s) safely.

[Penguin]

EXACTLY!

Right after reading this thread, my husband and I left to take our dogs to Doggie Do Run Run. We went down Parr to Belvedere. Right before getting to the golf cart path near the library, which crosses Parr, I always slow down because I've seen carts zip across this path. There was a cart there that started to roll out. Since I was driving very slowly, I tapped my brakes in case the cart kept coming. He stopped. I then drove over the cart path and stopped at the stop sign before pulling out onto Belvedere. For this, we received the following: the cart driver bellowed out, "You have a stop sign, dumb a__!! Is oncoming traffic supposed to stop before the cart path to give the carts the right of way? Now I ask you, who was the dumb a__????

You did the right thing. You were cautious and therefore continued on without incident Good for you. Sadly the guy screaming at you is guaranteed to have a mishap. I kept telling my students "you ride like a jerk long enough your going to go down"

[Pturner]

I suggest that one thing that could help with driver ignorance among visitors/renters (of which I'm one) is that The Villages hand out paperwork to all of us who pick up the temporary resident ID cards. I don't know how you could best reach those renters who don't bother to obtain those ID's. But, the paperwork should explain the rules of the road(s) in TV. For example, how to use a roundabout (while I have them where I live in upstate NY, not all communities have them, so lots of folks are not familiar with driving them). It should also be explained that cars/autos ALWAYS have the right-of-way, how to use and perhaps find the tunnels, etc. I've also been lucky since I've family living in TV, and they have educated me on the rules. I also suggest that homeowners who rent out their properties should have these handouts available for all renters to view, especially if you're renting w/a golf cart for use. After all, you should want to protect your own property.

While driving defensively, we have to be cognizant of the fact that we're driving in a community composed of mostly elderly people. Many of these people aren't paying attention, are losing some of their "faculties", and some get easily confused, etc. As others have said, slow down, pay attention, and pray you make it to your destination(s) safely.

Excellent idea about these handouts being distributed when renters/visitors pick up their ID's. It will go on my annual survey.

I do leave the safety brochures for my renters. Even if they have been here before, I ask them to re-familiarize themselves with the safety info.

[raynan]

The accident with the bicycle and a golf cart was on Buena Vista at the entrance to Bridgeport of Sumter Landing at about 5:30pm Monday night.

[PaPaLarry]

Maybe, the answer to all this is to have golf cart paths that are off the streets, so we don't have these accidents?? At least can plan that way in the new section. I like the idea of having a golf cart, and be able to go where ever I want in The Villages. Nothing like getting up in the mornin, and leaving for the golf course, with a cup of coffee and radio on, and a smile on my face!!! What a "LIFE" America!!! Life is Good, in The Villages. I still feel though, that streets are for cars, and cart paths for carts!! Hopefully, we all will be cautious. Vrooooooooooooooooom!!!!:wave::crap2::coolsmiley:

[bonrich]

Yes, Happinow, there are two tunnels to get you to the Colony Plaza. One to get you under Morse as you leave Sanibel gate, and to the other side along the golf course, then one more to get you under 466A to the Colony Rec Center. Then through there to a stop sign. Choice then is to turn right and take the road into the Plaza for all shopping needs, or go straight across the road and on the trail North to Lake Sumter or points West. You can get a golf cart map from the sales office in Lake Sumter which shows the main routes with the tunnels. We are newbies also so we keep the map clipped to our cart steering wheel for reference until we learn about how we got lost.

[skip0358]

My husband and I already agreed that we would find the route we were going to take with the cart, to and from where ever, and make sure we know how to get there via golf cart. We assume there must be an underground tunnel or similar to get from Sanibel to Subway in the plaza on 466A. (Not sure the name of the plaza) We have seen golf carts there but don't know how to get across 466A. In due time, we will learn. The best part is we will be coming to TV when everyone else is leaving to go back North. It should afford us somewhat of an easier time making our way around. I also think that a good time to explore is before 10 AM. There seems to be much less traffic. I am a timid driver but not afraid to explore. If we have any questions as to how to get from point A to point B there is lots of help out there from everyone, which I'm grateful for!

There's a link on TOTV for the Golf Cart trail map. Do a serch on the main page

[graciegirl]

Maybe, the answer to all this is to have golf cart paths that are off the streets, so we don't have these accidents?? At least can plan that way in the new section. I like the idea of having a golf cart, and be able to go where ever I want in The Villages. Nothing like getting up in the mornin, and leaving for the golf course, with a cup of coffee and radio on, and a smile on my face!!! What a "LIFE" America!!! Life is Good, in The Villages. I still feel though, that streets are for cars, and cart paths for carts!! Hopefully, we all will be cautious. Vrooooooooooooooooom!!!!:wave::crap2::coolsmiley:

I believe Larry that it has been said that every area of the new section had been planned out for some years. Every lot, every cart path. Apparently the only thing that hadn't been done is naming the villages and maybe the side streets.

The reason I suspect that is for a brief moment in time on The Villages site there was reference to Fernandina as McClinny or somethng like that and I haven't heard it again.

Our salesperson said the size of the lots and even the direction of the garages are all planned out.

There is no way one could predict the behavior of people and all of these accidents. Planning all separate carts would have been better.

So...we must protect ourselves and others.

[Ragman]

My golf car is capable of 'street legal' speed, but since I only use it on golf rails I had a speed governor installed for 20 MPH.
Almost every time I use it another golf cart (not street legal) will pass or tailgate me. I believe speed and other cart violations should be enforced more vigilantly.
Perhaps registering carts and requiring a 'Villages tag' would allow multiple violators to be identified.

[buggyone]

I read an article in the Daily Sun about this accident. It stated the golf cart swerved in front of a Lincoln in order to make a left hand turn onto St. Charles. I know that road very well. The cart did not look to the left to see if anyone was next to him when merging from the cart lane on Pennecamp.

Too bad that there were injuries but it was 100% avoidable if the cart driver had been paying attention.

[mac9]

I have seen too many drivers of golf carts turn on their signals and stick out their hand to merge with cars at the end of a cart path near a corner and then just go. How they could believe that this action gives them the right of way is beyond me. I often drive my golf cart and would never think to take on a car! It's just plain stupidity.

[eremite06]

The accident with the bicycle and a golf cart was on Buena Vista at the entrance to Bridgeport of Sumter Landing at about 5:30pm Monday night.

....and to add insult to injury.....according to the SUN today, "the golf cart driver struck the bicyclist, who was thrown from the bike, then the golf cart's driver backed up and struck the man while he was on the ground."

"Bystanders helped move the cart off the injured man's chest."

Are you kidding me????!!!!!

[zcaveman]

....and to add insult to injury.....according to the SUN today, "the golf cart driver struck the bicyclist, who was thrown from the bike, then the golf cart's driver backed up and struck the man while he was on the ground."

"Bystanders helped move the cart off the injured man's chest."

Are you kidding me????!!!!!

Maybe he panicked and was trying to get out of the way. He was probably in shock.

[ncr2482]

I don't think you need to worry about Newbies being treated with patience. Most residents are happy to help out anyone seeking directions.

However, even Newbies have a responsibility to drive defensively and to not endanger other cars and carts. If you're a Newbie driving a golf cart, and you don't know where the tunnels or paths are, pull over on the grass and watch other drivers. I've seen way too many golf cart drivers charge across Country Roads because they don't take the time to find the tunnels.

I couldn't agree with you more.

[NotGolfer]

While we're "talking" accidents and driving....I'd like to interject the folks who are in cars/trucks who "blow" through stop signs! I've seen it done down on Colony with the road coming off 466A onto (don't know the name of the street carts and cars share to get to the plaza)...by Walgreens. I've had to slam on my brakes (car and cart) more than once there. Also the "crossing" after the tunnel and Colony Rec Center...this also seems to be an accident waiting to happen. PLUS the side streets (the short ones) off from streets like Odell, that have a stop sign---way too many folks blow these as well. How many serious accidents will it take for change???? we can commisserate and complain here---without putting "wings" to our thoughts nothing will change!!

[mrsanborn]

How many more accidents before the insurance industry takes notice?

[GaryW]

How many more accidents before the insurance industry takes notice?

Not only that,, but before law enforcement is allowed to police that paths.

[GaryW]

Need to start allowing SCSO to enforce rules on the cart paths.

[graciegirl]

How many more accidents before the insurance industry takes notice?

Just like every other person from Buffalo, you are one smart cookie, Mrs. Sanborn.

All of these accidents are going to impact all of our insurance rates here pretty soon. I say....bring on the cops, ticket to your heart's content. If the dumb bunnies are gonna act dumb, nail 'em. Or on top of all of this horrible sad stuff and injured people, which is the worst..... we are all gonna be paying through the nose when our insurance premiums go off the charts.

[Mikeod]

Today, my wife was returning on Rio Grande and was at the lights at Morse when a golf cart traveling south on Morse went right through the intersection against the red light. Must have thought the cart lane didn't have to stop for the light. People, WAKE UP!!!!

[GaryW]

Just like the accident on the path this past weekend, Golf cart ran into 3 bikers. When police got there, all he could say was he just wanted to pass. Meanwhile one is in the ambulance going to the hospital.

[paulandjean]

Getting tired of all these golf cart,bicycle accidents.Just drive defensive,its not that hard.

[bike42]

Need to start allowing SCSO to enforce rules on the cart paths.

Yesterday I was surprised and delighted to see a Sumter County Sheriff's GOLF CART with two officers in it, driving along the cart path next to 466. Even if they can't ticket, I hope they will be patrolling, issuing warnings and generally helping to spread the "drive safe" message.

[Penguin]

getting tired of all these golf cart,bicycle accidents.just drive defensive,its not that hard.

amen!!!!!

[GaryW]

Yesterday I was surprised and delighted to see a Sumter County Sheriff's GOLF CART with two officers in it, driving along the cart path next to 466. Even if they can't ticket, I hope they will be patrolling, issuing warnings and generally helping to spread the "drive safe" message.

Yes I talked with SCSO office this morning. They are still not permitted to ticket. They can just fill out incident report. He said they would have to call FHP to ticket for any accident. He said Carts and Bikes are not considered a motor vehicle accident.

[BentBoy]

How many deaths does it take before people learn that golf carts are not play toys. They were not designed to be used as cars. They're not equipped with any safety gear at all. I see people holding infants in their lap while driving. That's child endangerment and illegal. These are the folks that are going to be the next victims.

[graciegirl]

Hijacking.

We saw the aftermath of a car...not golf cart, accident last evening about five. Police were there as a car was being removed from a crash into a home's lanai off Morse close to Palo Alto. The car damaged the lanai and apparently mowed down shrubbery before hitting it on the east side of Morse.The crash was a fairly good distance off the road. I wonder why the driver couldn't stop.

I hope no one was on the lanai and I hope the driver of the car was not badly injured. I can't think how it happened. It was straight into the lanai and the roof and side of the structure in the area it hit were badly damaged.

[zcaveman]

Hijacking.

We saw the aftermath of a car...not golf cart, accident last evening about five. Police were there as a car was being removed from a crash into a home's lanai off Morse close to Palo Alto. The car damaged the lanai and apparently mowed down shrubbery before hitting it on the east side of Morse.The crash was a fairly good distance off the road. I wonder why the driver couldn't stop.

I hope no one was on the lanai and I hope the driver of the car was not badly injured. I can't think how it happened. It was straight into the lanai and the roof and side of the structure in the area it hit were badly damaged.

This was in the Daily Sun this morning.

Z

[PaPaLarry]

I was there soon after it happened. The way the vehicles were positioned, the cart was facing northbound with damage to the right front but was in the southbound lane of St. Charles at the intersection of Pennecamp. The car was in the southbound lane of St. Charles and had damage to the front end. If this is the way the vehicles actually collided, then it appears the cart was turning left into Pennecamp and when it crossed the opposite lane a southbound car hit them.

Cars are usually backed up coming out of Pennecamp and many cars are usually turning into Pennecamp. In fact, the half mile or so stretch of St. Charles at the intersection of Pennecamp, Buttonwood and Tamarind Grove are always busy and congested. It's not a good situation for someone with slow reflexes.
I agree wholeheartily!!!!!! Maybe good suggestion (besides some lights) is that golf carts merge at each intersection!! (Of course we do see some people still riding in striped white lines) cart paths off the street would be the best.

[PaPaLarry]

Just like every other person from Buffalo, you are one smart cookie, Mrs. Sanborn.

All of these accidents are going to impact all of our insurance rates here pretty soon. I say....bring on the cops, ticket to your heart's content. If the dumb bunnies are gonna act dumb, nail 'em. Or on top of all of this horrible sad stuff and injured people, which is the worst..... we are all gonna be paying through the nose when our insurance premiums go off the charts. Way to go Gracie!!!! I agree also!!!:BigApplause:

[NotGolfer]

Originally Posted by graciegirl
Hijacking.

We saw the aftermath of a car...not golf cart, accident last evening about five. Police were there as a car was being removed from a crash into a home's lanai off Morse close to Palo Alto. The car damaged the lanai and apparently mowed down shrubbery before hitting it on the east side of Morse.The crash was a fairly good distance off the road. I wonder why the driver couldn't stop.

I hope no one was on the lanai and I hope the driver of the car was not badly injured. I can't think how it happened. It was straight into the lanai and the roof and side of the structure in the area it hit were badly damaged.
***************
This could have happened due to a medical event!

That being said....many of the other accidents that happen here in T.V. are most likely due to folks being inattentive. They're distracted by something or someone. In reading (I think it was the last POA) that was published, accidents and most of those were due to what I just said.

[spk7951]

Originally Posted by graciegirl
Hijacking.

We saw the aftermath of a car...not golf cart, accident last evening about five. Police were there as a car was being removed from a crash into a home's lanai off Morse close to Palo Alto. The car damaged the lanai and apparently mowed down shrubbery before hitting it on the east side of Morse.The crash was a fairly good distance off the road. I wonder why the driver couldn't stop.

I hope no one was on the lanai and I hope the driver of the car was not badly injured. I can't think how it happened. It was straight into the lanai and the roof and side of the structure in the area it hit were badly damaged.
***************
This could have happened due to a medical event!

That being said....many of the other accidents that happen here in T.V. are most likely due to folks being inattentive. They're distracted by something or someone. In reading (I think it was the last POA) that was published, accidents and most of those were due to what I just said.


According to the story in the paper today this particular accident was caused by one vehicle doing a "rolling stop" from a side street onto the main road. Very dangerous!

[PennBF]

I don't understand why a lot men feel the need to let their leg hang out
over the cart when they are driving. One of these days there will be a
serious accident because of this need to look macho. It is not macho
but rather kind of dumb.:jester:

[graciegirl]

According to the story in the paper today this particular accident was caused by one vehicle doing a "rolling stop" from a side street onto the main road. Very dangerous!

I have looked from cover to cover and can't find it in the Sun.

[NotGolfer]

I have looked from cover to cover and can't find it in the Sun.

It's there with picture included! Too many folks do the "rolling stop" thing, or none at all!!

[zcaveman]

I have looked from cover to cover and can't find it in the Sun.

Page C-4 top center

[Bill-n-Brillo]

I don't understand why a lot men feel the need to let their leg hang out
over the cart when they are driving. One of these days there will be a
serious accident because of this need to look macho. It is not macho
but rather kind of dumb.:jester:

FWIW - I do it - just a bit with my left knee, not the whole leg............but it's definitely not to be macho. It's a subconscious (or in my case, probably unconscious!!!) thing that just happens - I don't do it by intent. Exactly the same thing happens with my left leg when riding a motorcycle. Why it just naturally happens (for me, anyways) - - - I have absolutely no idea.

I try to be conscious of it in the cart as I realize that it could potentially be a problem in certain instances. But if the thought slips from my mind for a while.......there goes that left knee again! Maybe I need a bungee cord or something....... :D

Bill :)

[zcaveman]

FWIW - I do it - just a bit with my left knee, not the whole leg............but it's definitely not to be macho. It's a subconscious (or in my case, probably unconscious!!!) thing that just happens - I don't do it by intent. Exactly the same thing happens with my left leg when riding a motorcycle. Why it just naturally happens (for me, anyways) - - - I have absolutely no idea.

I try to be conscious of it in the cart as I realize that it could potentially be a problem in certain instances. But if the thought slips from my mind for a while.......there goes that left knee again! Maybe I need a bungee cord or something....... :D

Bill :)

I also do it subconsciously. But I think I have figured it out. When I drive the car I notice that my left knee rests against the car door. Now that there is no clutch to press or dimmer switch to step on, the left leg just kind of sits there and does nothing.

Since there is no door in a golf cart to lean against, it hangs out.

[graciegirl]

Page C-4 top center

OH Z! The joke is on me, the frequent defender of our Daily Sun.

When people say mean stuff about it I always say "That news will show up sooner or later".

What I was looking for was something from the police blotter because accidents usually aren't covered in news..

So there it was complete with a picture and I skimmed by it looking for a tiny little blurb somewhere.

Glad to read that the injuries were not life threatening and angry to read that someone didn't stop at a stop sign hitting that car and propelling it into someones home.

[thekeithfan]

What scares me are these people with the registered golf carts drivng through the round-a-bouts and accross 441,466 and 466A. I have a 6,000 pound diesel truck and I sometimes don't feel safe going around them or accross 441 to Lowes. Are there any idiots out there with registered carts that can explain why they risk thier lives in a registered cart?

[Ragman]

What scares me are these people with the registered golf carts drivng through the round-a-bouts and accross 441,466 and 466A. I have a 6,000 pound diesel truck and I sometimes don't feel safe going around them or accross 441 to Lowes. Are there any idiots out there with registered carts that can explain why they risk thier lives in a registered cart?

Because they can.

[Dirigo]

I don't understand why a lot men feel the need to let their leg hang out
over the cart when they are driving. One of these days there will be a
serious accident because of this need to look macho. It is not macho
but rather kind of dumb.:jester:

My left knee extends beyond the side of the golf cart because it is a comfortable position. I *do* tuck my knee in when crossing the Morse Bridge and in other tight spaces. Being a large guy I hug the left side of the seat to allow more room for my passenger.

I don't understand guys (and it is always guys) who dangle their left foot and leg outside the golf cart. That's just asking for trouble.

[NotGolfer]

My left knee extends beyond the side of the golf cart because it is a comfortable position. I *do* tuck my knee in when crossing the Morse Bridge and in other tight spaces. Being a large guy I hug the left side of the seat to allow more room for my passenger.

I don't understand guys (and it is always guys) who dangle their left foot and leg outside the golf cart. That's just asking for trouble.

When we attended the "newcomer's information meeting" right after we moved here, the officials told us that dangling legs from carts "is" one of the accidents seen in the ER. They informed us at that time to keep the appendages inside the cart!

[anlashokna]

Sorry to hear :( I make a good point to watch out for our golf cart friends. But agree...too many speeders around here. I take great pleasure slowing down the construction vehicles and making them do the speed limits but more than once I've followed or seen them cut into the golf cart lanes to get around cars. Do they not have a clue this is illegal?? Oh and have seen non construction folks do that too. That is a golf cart/bike lane...dont be passing using it...oh wait..do...seeing the sumter county sheriff through here more and more lately :P

Btw anyone have a good non emergency number for them (sheriff). Tried to call the one in the front of the phone book the other day and didn't appear to be a good number unless it was me :(