Reckless Drivers Run Amok!

[grayesun]

In the last week, I've had 2 close calls, nearly being run down by vehicles running stop signs and traffic lights...slow down people...just slow down and pay attention!

1st incident - riding my bike on Bichara Blvd. (most dangerous place to ride a bike in Villages IMHO, I won't ever do it again). Travelling south at a slow speed, I was approaching La Plaza Parkway intersection - when a vehicle pulled up to stop sign after exiting 441, driver "paused-slowed" at stop sign momentarily then darted out right in front of me. I needed to jam on both brakes and come to sudden stop to avoid crashing with car. I yelled out a few choice words, observed the lady-passenger in the car saying something to male driver as they continued on their way. I know the driver saw me as he slowed at the stop sign, bur apparently he decided he could speed through the intersection before me.

2nd incident - at of Lakeshore Drive and Lake Sumter Landing, we were just leaving Subway at LSL in our golf car heading east, about to enter intersection (traffic light had been green for about 5 seconds), when a car flew through the red light from Lakeshore Dr., nearly hitting a golf car that was turning left towards Sweetbay. Fortunately, we had slowed to allow this golf car to turn left in front of us...or we would likely have been hit broadside by the speeding car that ran the red light. The windows were down as the car sped through, so I yelled out "RED LIGHT"...hopefully this driver will be more attentive following this near tragedy.

The lesson of course is to always drive or bike the roads wherever you are "defensively"...you never know what the other guy/gal is going to do.

Safe travels folks and slow down!

[REDCART]

This could be a permanent thread! Earlier this week I saw a Lexus RX350 speed through the Mallory Gate right behind another car to avoid waiting for the gate to close and reopen. How much of a hurry can you be in to risk damage to your car and maybe to a golf cart who anticipated the gate closing before proceeding? We've all made questionable decisions at some point in our lives but poor judgement here may be out of control.

[angiefox10]

No kidding. We almost got creamed on a round a bout. A guy making a left turn from the right lane. And he layed on the horn at us. Another one just drove into the round a bout without looking

[JC and John]

In the last week, I've had 2 close calls, nearly being run down by vehicles running stop signs and traffic lights...slow down people...just slow down and pay attention!

1st incident - riding my bike on Bichara Blvd. (most dangerous place to ride a bike in Villages IMHO, I won't ever do it again). Travelling south at a slow speed, I was approaching La Plaza Parkway intersection - when a vehicle pulled up to stop sign after exiting 441, driver "paused-slowed" at stop sign momentarily then darted out right in front of me. I needed to jam on both brakes and come to sudden stop to avoid crashing with car. I yelled out a few choice words, observed the lady-passenger in the car saying something to male driver as they continued on their way. I know the driver saw me as he slowed at the stop sign, bur apparently he decided he could speed through the intersection before me.

2nd incident - at of Lakeshore Drive and Lake Sumter Landing, we were just leaving Subway at LSL in our golf car heading east, about to enter intersection (traffic light had been green for about 5 seconds), when a car flew through the red light from Lakeshore Dr., nearly hitting a golf car that was turning left towards Sweetbay. Fortunately, we had slowed to allow this golf car to turn left in front of us...or we would likely have been hit broadside by the speeding car that ran the red light. The windows were down as the car sped through, so I yelled out "RED LIGHT"...hopefully this driver will be more attentive following this near tragedy.

The lesson of course is to always drive or bike the roads wherever you are "defensively"...you never know what the other guy/gal is going to do.

Safe travels folks and slow down!

I am really disgusted with the way some folks drive in and around TV. Seems worse since we moved here back in Feb than when we were here in Aug. for a lifestyle preview. Just today I was going to UPS on 468 and some a-- decided that he was going to go around me (even though I was going the speed limit) while we were approaching a red light not more than 600 ft ahead. Oh, I was getting ready to get in the left lane to turn. Lucky for all the light turned green and he sailed on through. And, what is up with those who speed through the parking lot at the Lady Lake Post Office. I am always getting either honked at or having to slam on the brakes as I am backing out of a space. I swear I look more than once to ensure no one is coming, check all the mirrors (no I don't have any blind spots) and BAM there they are! Hit me from behind and see if your insurance will buy me a new SUV. It is not like they can't see me. They just don't want to wait for 2 seconds. I come from the major metro area of Washington DC and am well versed in high traffic volume, speed and road rage. DC seems tame compared to here or maybe I was just used to it. Oh well, thanks for letting me vent.

[Challenger]

Have been driving for 50 years with only 2 fender benders and less than a handful of tickets. However, I have never seen the level of bad driving practices that I have experienced here since arriving in 2011. This extends to bikes , carts, autos and various construction vehicles. What is going on and how can we make it better before many more people are mamed and or killed?

[billethkid]

welcome to TV...FL friendliest hometown....unless they are behind the wheel!!!!

btk

[grayesun]

I am really disgusted with the way some folks drive in and around TV. Seems worse since we moved here back in Feb than when we were here in Aug. for a lifestyle preview. Just today I was going to UPS on 468 and some a-- decided that he was going to go around me (even though I was going the speed limit) while we were approaching a red light not more than 600 ft ahead. Oh, I was getting ready to get in the left lane to turn. Lucky for all the light turned green and he sailed on through. And, what is up with those who speed through the parking lot at the Lady Lake Post Office. I am always getting either honked at or having to slam on the brakes as I am backing out of a space. I swear I look more than once to ensure no one is coming, check all the mirrors (no I don't have any blind spots) and BAM there they are! Hit me from behind and see if your insurance will buy me a new SUV. It is not like they can't see me. They just don't want to wait for 2 seconds. I come from the major metro area of Washington DC and am well versed in high traffic volume, speed and road rage. DC seems tame compared to here or maybe I was just used to it. Oh well, thanks for letting me vent.

Yeah, I hear ya...about now I'm craving that unbearable summertime heat and ghost town feel of TV! :mad:

[Figmo Bohica]

If you hit, you better kill me, because if you don't I am going to own all that you have and then some. You can keep your SO, has he/she would have be to feed and that would eat into the enjoyment of me spending your money.

[angiefox10]

If you hit, you better kill me, because if you don't I am going to own all that you have and then some. You can keep your SO, has he/she would have be to feed and that would eat into the enjoyment of me spending your money.

I think that's what the guy who ran over the biker was thinking when he backed up to hit him again.

[NotGolfer]

Posted this on another thread or similar words as such....but had an aha moment today. We get folks down here from all over the country--world really. SOME live in large cities where folks seem to drive as if on the autobahn (have you been to Chicago??). They bring these habits down here with them. Put with that unfamiliarity of the area, having certain afflictions, being on medications and just not paying attention into the mix! Should be a HUGE front page article on this in The Sun...but doubt that will happen.

We ALL have stories from when we've been out and about! The other evening, returning from supper in SS and going on the multi-model along Morse, before you get to the Malory golf-course (it was dark!!!!) we met a biker WITHOUT a light or reflective ANYTHING (dark clothing even). Heard from someone who preceeded us that they were passing a golf-cart and as they pulled into their lane they encountered the biker---had it been a couple of seconds difference there would have been another bike/cart accident and head-on! GAH!!!!!!

[Boudicca]

As many of the users of TOTV know, I am sight impaired, and thus drive my golf cart VERY carefully, probably just like the proverbial "little ol lady". Driving back from golf at Belmont yesterday, I was enjoying an almost deserted ride on the cart path, north to south approaching the Lake Miona tunnel. There is a golf cart path intersection there,at the top of the tunnel incline, one I always approach with considerable caution. Good job. As I approached the intersection with ME having the ROW, and with NO traffic either in front or behind me, a woman driver spun her cart from the intersection, ignored the STOP sign, and drove in front of me with only feet to spare, then came to an almost stop as she drove down into the tunnel. She had a large golden retriever in the passenger seat. As I hit my brakes, the woman looked up in her mirror (ah-mazing) and we made eye contact. My wind shield was down, and I yelled "REALLY?, YOU COULD NOT WAIT 10 SECONDS?".... She was obviously in her own world, but somethng clicked (other than me fuming behind her cart) because she took a sudden right turn - no signal, into Lake Miona's parking lot.... As we say in Yoga "breathe in all that is wholesome and good"......... aaagghhhhhhh

[NotGolfer]

As many of the users of TOTV know, I am sight impaired, and thus drive my golf cart VERY carefully, probably just like the proverbial "little ol lady". Driving back from golf at Belmont yesterday, I was enjoying an almost deserted ride on the cart path, north to south approaching the Lake Miona tunnel. There is a golf cart path intersection there,at the top of the tunnel incline, one I always approach with considerable caution. Good job. As I approached the intersection with ME having the ROW, and with NO traffic either in front or behind me, a woman driver spun her cart from the intersection, ignored the STOP sign, and drove in front of me with only feet to spare, then came to an almost stop as she drove down into the tunnel. She had a large golden retriever in the passenger seat. As I hit my brakes, the woman looked up in her mirror (ah-mazing) and we made eye contact. My wind shield was down, and I yelled "REALLY?, YOU COULD NOT WAIT 10 SECONDS?".... She was obviously in her own world, but somethng clicked (other than me fuming behind her cart) because she took a sudden right turn - no signal, into Lake Miona's parking lot.... As we say in Yoga "breathe in all that is wholesome and good"......... aaagghhhhhhh

Un.be.liev.able!!!

Your post reminded me of yet another cart sighting today. We'd just gone over the bridge that goes over 441 when we met a cart. In the driver's seat (I'm not kidding) was sitting a large dog with his master sitting in the passenger side holding the steering wheel (and I suspect had his foot on the pedal). BIG SIGH!!! Where do these people come from?? He probably thought he was being funny and cute...but we didn't laugh!!!

[skip0358]

A few weeks back we were coming back fromm SS side. We were approaching the famos LS bridge. We know the sign says 10 mph which rarely happens when a guy infront of us passes the cart in front of him on the bridge GC path. Are you kidding me. People are asking to have the walkway removed because the bridge is to narrow and this jerk passes on the bridge. What the heck is the hurry!! PS None of the carts were doing 10 mph.

[getdul981]

I'll be the first to admit that when I am crossing that bridge, if nothing is coming, I run WFO so I can get across before I do have to meet a cart. If there is someone on the bridge, I do slow down to 10 MPH. (or what I feel like is 10 MPH as I don't have a speedometer)

[Happinow]

I'm reading our morning paper and there's an article in it that headlines "Civility lost when it comes to driving." They are talking much about what's going on in TV. People pulling out in front of one another, people flipping others off if they aren't going fast enough, tail gating, not stopping for crosswalks. It's everywhere. It is a law that people in Florida have to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks??

I think in a lot of places stress plays a big factor in the poor, unruly drivers. They are taking their anger out on the road. Shouldn't be a factor in TV because I don't think people are typically angry. We'll have to come up with another excuse for them.

[JoeC1947]

I tried something the other day and decided to stick with it. Instead of complaining about people passing me all of the time and, instead of me trying to conform to their bad driving habits, I decided to drop my speed to 5mph BELOW the posted speed limit and keep it there with cruise control. It was calming to watch the nuts speeding all over the place. I will do this from now on and I encourage all people who feel the same way to join me. If we get enough people to participate we can slow this place down a bit. Maybe we can get the nuts into a "if you can't beat them, join then them" thing. Try it and see for yourself. It makes me feel better!

[red tail]

I tried something the other day and decided to stick with it. Instead of complaining about people passing me all of the time and, instead of me trying to conform to their bad driving habits, I decided to drop my speed to 5mph BELOW the posted speed limit and keep it there with cruise control. It was calming to watch the nuts speeding all over the place. I will do this from now on and I encourage all people who feel the same way to join me. If we get enough people to participate we can slow this place down a bit. Maybe we can get the nuts into a "if you can't beat them, join then them" thing. Try it and see for yourself. It makes me feel better!

all thats going to get you is 'road rage'

[senior citizen]

...

[hoganth]

My brother who recently moved here from Arizona refers to the roundabouts as being a "Circle of Death". Yeah, I warned him about driving around here. I must say I have observed some recklessness around here but some of the drivers I have noticed don't "Appear" to be villagers as evidenced by their appearance (age).
Just my .02 worth:mad:

[Midge538]

When we drive with our golf cart or our car is is really an endeavor based on 'trust.' When driving, we 'trust' that others in our community will follow the rules, not drive over lines, not tailgate, not speed, use signals, and not conduct themselves in any way that puts other Villagers in danger. In the past this was generally the case. In The Villages (and probably everywhere) these rules of civility have broken down. People constantly cut off other drivers, speed beyond belief, disregard roundabout rules ... and roundabout civility .. and break every rule of the road. Have you noticed how this has even broken down in parking lots like Publix? People just back out of spaces without looking, cut in front to get to a space, park their golf carts in front of the store(s), and speed through the lots with total disregard for the safety of other neighbors and community members. I don't ever remember a letter, editorial, or an article in The Sun that might have at least started a dialogue and awareness of this issue. It would seem to be a function of the Sun to create some awareness for these concerns. It seems to be time for our community paper to address this issue.

[Happinow]

Maybe if they step up police patrol it would make a difference.....until the police stop patrolling then everyone goes back to their bad habits.

[JoeC1947]

all thats going to get you is 'road rage'

For what? Driving 5mph below the speed limit? I say too bad for the road rage idiots. At least I won't be one of them. Do you have another suggestion?

[red tail]

For what? Driving 5mph below the speed limit? I say too bad for the road rage idiots. At least I won't be one of them. Do you have another suggestion?

do the speed limit.

[REDCART]

My brother who recently moved here from Arizona refers to the roundabouts as being a "Circle of Death". Yeah, I warned him about driving around here. I must say I have observed some recklessness around here but some of the drivers I have noticed don't "Appear" to be villagers as evidenced by their appearance (age).
Just my .02 worth:mad:

What makes the roundabouts in TV so dangerous is the extreme levels of driver's experience. Experienced drivers who have been here awhile are familiar and maybe over confidant. renters and newcomers to TV usually have no experience, and residents from the UK have to overcome driving on the left. Add into the mix seniors some of whom are a little slower to react and contractors who tend to be reckless--and you've got a perfect storm. Of course this same mix of drivers is always on the streets but the roundabouts pose a unique hazard for drivers.

[eremite06]

When we drive with our golf cart or our car is is really an endeavor based on 'trust.' When driving, we 'trust' that others in our community will follow the rules, not drive over lines, not tailgate, not speed, use signals, and not conduct themselves in any way that puts other Villagers in danger. In the past this was generally the case. In The Villages (and probably everywhere) these rules of civility have broken down. People constantly cut off other drivers, speed beyond belief, disregard roundabout rules ... and roundabout civility .. and break every rule of the road. Have you noticed how this has even broken down in parking lots like Publix? People just back out of spaces without looking, cut in front to get to a space, park their golf carts in front of the store(s), and speed through the lots with total disregard for the safety of other neighbors and community members. I don't ever remember a letter, editorial, or an article in The Sun that might have at least started a dialogue and awareness of this issue. It would seem to be a function of the Sun to create some awareness for these concerns. It seems to be time for our community paper to address this issue.

Fire chief Tucker has written numerous articles in the SUN pertaining to safety.

[dillywho]

My brother who recently moved here from Arizona refers to the roundabouts as being a "Circle of Death". Yeah, I warned him about driving around here. I must say I have observed some recklessness around here but some of the drivers I have noticed don't "Appear" to be villagers as evidenced by their appearance (age).
Just my .02 worth:mad:

Contrary to popular belief, it is not the older population that is the problem the majority of the time.

[JoeC1947]

do the speed limit.

Why? Is that the law? If 5mph below the speed limit bothers you then maybe you're part of the problem!

[red tail]

forum rage ?

[cappyjon431]

Contrary to popular belief, it is not the older population that is the problem the majority of the time.

That has not been my experience. While I have seen problems with contractors and younger folks on TV's roads, in my personal experience I have seen more incidents with seniors than I have with younger folks (which makes sense, as there are proportionally more seniors on roads in TV). Very recently I had an older woman lay on the horn behind me on El Camino Real because I was in an LSV (doing 26 mph) in the right lane and she couldn't be troubled to go around me in the left lane. Even more recently I had an older woman go forward through two parking spaces at Barnes and Noble (instead of backing out like she was supposed to) without looking and almost cutting me off, almost causing an accident. No big deal, people make mistakes and she should've just been more careful--BUT then she had the nerve to flip me off. It is a good thing I was in an LSV because I tried to catch up with her and discuss it, but she fled. Even this morning me wife was coming home from a long shift at the hospital and some jerk (who she describes as "older") stuck his head out the passenger side window of a vehicle (he was the passenger) and yelled at my wife to drive on the path (even though her LSV is street legal AND permitted on El Camino Real).

There are street signs all over TV saying "Share the Road," but maybe it is difficult for some folks to read.

Please understand I am not saying older drivers aren't competent drivers, only that i've seen more rudeness from older drivers than I have from younger folks. It surprises me. I just hope things improve a little in the next month or so when there are fewer people on our roads.

[red tail]

That has not been my experience. While I have seen problems with contractors and younger folks on TV's roads, in my personal experience I have seen more incidents with seniors than I have with younger folks (which makes sense, as there are proportionally more seniors on roads in TV). Very recently I had an older woman lay on the horn behind me on El Camino Real because I was in an LSV (doing 26 mph) in the right lane and she couldn't be troubled to go around me in the left lane. Even more recently I had an older woman go forward through two parking spaces at Barnes and Noble (instead of backing out like she was supposed to) without looking and almost cutting me off, almost causing an accident. No big deal, people make mistakes and she should've just been more careful--BUT then she had the nerve to flip me off. It is a good thing I was in an LSV because I tried to catch up with her and discuss it, but she fled. Even this morning me wife was coming home from a long shift at the hospital and some jerk (who she describes as "older") stuck his head out the passenger side window of a vehicle (he was the passenger) and yelled at my wife to drive on the path (even though her LSV is street legal AND permitted on El Camino Real).

There are street signs all over TV saying "Share the Road," but maybe it is difficult for some folks to read.

Please understand I am not saying older drivers aren't competent drivers, only that i've seen more rudeness from older drivers than I have from younger folks. It surprises me. I just hope things improve a little in the next month or so when there are fewer people on our roads.

i dont think its a good thing to be chasing women drivers down just because she gave you the finger. that sounds like trouble in the making. sounds like a thing a bully would do.

[cappyjon431]

i dont think its a good thing to be chasing women drivers down just because she gave you the finger. that sounds like trouble in the making. sounds like a thing a bully would do.

Sorry if you would consider this bullying. Wanting to politely discuss someone's bad behavior is NOT bullying.

Here is a definition of bullying:

bul·ly

noun
1.
a blustering, quarrelsome, overbearing person who habitually badgers and intimidates people.

Anyone who knows me knows that I am not quarrelsome, blustering, or overbearing. I don't think this qualifies as "habitually" badgering someone.

In any event:

1. I would have just as certainly chased a man if he had been the one to flick me off. Bad behavior is bad behavior, regardless of gender.

2. This woman almost caused an accident and then had had the nerve to flick me off for her incompetence. Don't you see anything wrong with that?

3. If we continue to condone bad behavior in TV, bad behavior will continue.

4. I just wanted to discuss the issue with her, as where I come from real women don't flick men off, especially when the woman is in the wrong. I just wanted to understand WHY she would behave so inappropriately.

It would seem to me that it is time to stop making excuses for bad behavior (saving seats in the square, rude driving behavior, etc.) and start standing up to those who obviously were not raised properly.

[JoeC1947]

forum rage ?

LOL, if that's what you want to believe:1rotfl:

[red tail]

Sorry if you would consider this bullying. Wanting to politely discuss someone's bad behavior is NOT bullying.

Here is a definition of bullying:

bul·ly

noun
1.
a blustering, quarrelsome, overbearing person who habitually badgers and intimidates people.

Anyone who knows me knows that I am not quarrelsome, blustering, or overbearing. I don't think this qualifies as "habitually" badgering someone.

In any event:

1. I would have just as certainly chased a man if he had been the one to flick me off. Bad behavior is bad behavior, regardless of gender.

2. This woman almost caused an accident and then had had the nerve to flick me off for her incompetence. Don't you see anything wrong with that?

3. If we continue to condone bad behavior in TV, bad behavior will continue.

4. I just wanted to discuss the issue with her, as where I come from real women don't flick men off, especially when the woman is in the wrong. I just wanted to understand WHY she would behave so inappropriately.

It would seem to me that it is time to stop making excuses for bad behavior (saving seats in the square, rude driving behavior, etc.) and start standing up to those who obviously were not raised properly.

there is NO excuse to ever chase anyone. thats why we have law enforcement. im sure you would not want anyone chasing down your wife or loved one for anything this trivial!!!

[cappyjon431]

there is NO excuse to ever chase anyone. thats why we have law enforcement. im sure you would not want anyone chasing down your wife or loved one for anything this trivial!!!

We will have to agree to disagree.

Law enforcement does not need to be around for everything. The police really have no jurisdiction in private parking lots anyway. What we need is for people to be able to politely discuss perceived bad behavior, not to condone (ignore) it.

My wife and loved ones would NEVER flick someone off if they were at fault and almost caused an accident.

You might consider it trivial, but I am really getting tired of the bad behavior I see in TV. I just got back from Publix. The check out lines have an express lane for 10 items or less. I had a diet coke and a bag of celery. The woman in front of me had over 25 items (I stopped counting after 25). The cashier didn't say anything. If no one says anything the bad behavior goes unchecked and continues.

I truly believe that by continuing to ignore bad behavior there is no reason for the offending party to change. I am not saying a physical confrontation is necessary, but when we start letting people step all over us we are allowing civility in our society to slowly erode.

[red tail]

my only comment is dont be chasing people!!!

[Midge538]

Fire chief Tucker has written numerous articles in the SUN pertaining to safety.

Yes, smoke alarms etc. but they have never allowed him to indicate that we have a serious and growing problem with driving accidents, habits/issues here in the TV. For all of us, it is a problem that should be aired (aside from on TOTV) and needs to be addressed and the TV media would seem to be a logical starting point.

[NotGolfer]

Yes, smoke alarms etc. but they have never allowed him to indicate that we have a serious and growing problem with driving accidents, habits/issues here in the TV. For all of us, it is a problem that should be aired (aside from on TOTV) and needs to be addressed and the TV media would seem to be a logical starting point.

Probably not the "growing" problem of accidents etc....but he has written about safely driving carts, also the roundabouts etc. I venture to say that I've wondered exactly how many folks have read his column.

[cappyjon431]

my only comment is dont be chasing people!!!

And my only comment is for you to deal with rude behavior in your way (I would never presume to tell you how to deal with rude people) and allow me to deal with rude behavior in my own way.

[Pturner]

Un.be.liev.able!!!

Your post reminded me of yet another cart sighting today. We'd just gone over the bridge that goes over 441 when we met a cart. In the driver's seat (I'm not kidding) was sitting a large dog with his master sitting in the passenger side holding the steering wheel (and I suspect had his foot on the pedal). BIG SIGH!!! Where do these people come from?? He probably thought he was being funny and cute...but we didn't laugh!!!

Now that's got to be one of the dumbest driving stories since Redwitch posted about being hit by a golf cart and the driver blamed her for being there.

Sheesh. Don't people know that they are not supposed to leave their brains at home when they get behind the wheel?

[lightworker888]

The presupposition beneath the reason for chasing after someone to discuss, is that the other person is interested or capable of discussing the issue. Usually actions like flipping someone, are triggered by emotions that have no real rationale that is based on reason and therefore are difficult to really discuss. The pursuer usually feels better, after having done something in response, rather than feeling like they have been walked on, but in truth, the flipper probably won't change as the action of flipping was emotion driven and not a thoughtful response to a situation. And there is the distinct possibility that the situation could escalate into a major confrontation as emotions get more heated. IMHO it is usually best to not take the flip as personal (as the flipper probably flips anyone who gets in his/her way) and pat yourself on the back for staying out of his/her drama. Also thank your stars that you don't have to live with him/her!


LW888

[memason]

We will have to agree to disagree.

Law enforcement does not need to be around for everything. The police really have no jurisdiction in private parking lots anyway. What we need is for people to be able to politely discuss perceived bad behavior, not to condone (ignore) it.

My wife and loved ones would NEVER flick someone off if they were at fault and almost caused an accident.

You might consider it trivial, but I am really getting tired of the bad behavior I see in TV. I just got back from Publix. The check out lines have an express lane for 10 items or less. I had a diet coke and a bag of celery. The woman in front of me had over 25 items (I stopped counting after 25). The cashier didn't say anything. If no one says anything the bad behavior goes unchecked and continues.

I truly believe that by continuing to ignore bad behavior there is no reason for the offending party to change. I am not saying a physical confrontation is necessary, but when we start letting people step all over us we are allowing civility in our society to slowly erode.

Since you were right there, did you say anything to her about her inappropriate behavior. At least, you didn't have to chase her down.

Just sayin . . .

[cappyjon431]

Since you were right there, did you say anything to her about her inappropriate behavior. At least, you didn't have to chase her down.

Just sayin . . .

Unfortunately she was in a SUV with her windows rolled up. I was in a LSV and I tried to communicate with her, but after flicking me off she accelerated at a high rate of speed out of the parking lot. It simply wasn't possible (although I wish it was).

[CarGuys]

I find myself second guessing my own driving.

Is it just me or do others feel this way. I believe I am going thru the roundabouts correctly and like others post I am cut off.

The Honking if you don't Gun it away from a light or stop sign.

And this has been covered before the danger of carts being waved on and allowed to cross in front or a car at the gates.

It seems if I attempt to drive more careful others get more agressive and rude.

[bluedog103]

We will have to agree to disagree.

Law enforcement does not need to be around for everything. The police really have no jurisdiction in private parking lots anyway. What we need is for people to be able to politely discuss perceived bad behavior, not to condone (ignore) it.

She just flipped you the bird. It's not likely she was going to politely discuss anything.

[cappyjon431]

The presupposition beneath the reason for chasing after someone to discuss, is that the other person is interested or capable of discussing the issue. Usually actions like flipping someone, are triggered by emotions that have no real rationale that is based on reason and therefore are difficult to really discuss. The pursuer usually feels better, after having done something in response, rather than feeling like they have been walked on, but in truth, the flipper probably won't change as the action of flipping was emotion driven and not a thoughtful response to a situation. And there is the distinct possibility that the situation could escalate into a major confrontation as emotions get more heated. IMHO it is usually best to not take the flip as personal (as the flipper probably flips anyone who gets in his/her way) and pat yourself on the back for staying out of his/her drama. Also thank your stars that you don't have to live with him/her!




LW888

You raise a very cogent and very legitimate argument, and I truly appreciate your rational approach.

In many cases, I would tend to agree with you, but in this case I was faced with two distinct choices.

I could have ignored her rude behavior. She almost caused an accident and then demonstrated unacceptable behavior, offending both my spouse and myself. If I ignore it, the chances are she continues to drive wrecklessly and continues to mistreat people. She has no consequences to her actions.

I could try to confront her and nicely explain that I thought her actions were out of line. You are correct in stating that she might not have listened to what I had to say. Very possible, even probable. On the other hand, I am an eternal optimist and I can't help thinking that perhaps we could have had a meaningful dialogue. Even if she became defensive, I can't help hoping that perhaps in the future she would think twice before mistreating others. I felt I had to at least try.

As for it escalating, I wouldn't let it happen. While very few on this board know me personally, those that do know that I speak in a quite, respectful voice and that I don't lose my temper. She could "escalate" all she wanted to, but I would have remained calm and collected--it is my nature (on the other hand i might have had to restrain my wife, who has more of a temper than I).

[cappyjon431]

She just flipped you the bird. It's not likely she was going to politely discuss anything.

She also almost ran into a small LSV at a fairly high rate of speed (especially for being in a parking lot) while driving a big SUV. I still would've liked to TRY to discuss it with her. I see nothing wrong with TRYING to have a civil discussion. At least I would have left knowing I tried to get through to her.

[senior citizen]

...

[memason]

Unfortunately she was in a SUV with her windows rolled up. I was in a LSV and I tried to communicate with her, but after flicking me off she accelerated at a high rate of speed out of the parking lot. It simply wasn't possible (although I wish it was).

Sorry Cappy... I wasn't specific. I was referring the the woman in the grocery line, in front of you with more than 25 items. I was just curious, since she was right in front of you, did you lecture her on her inappropriate behavior or did you keep quiet ???

[senior citizen]

...

[senior citizen]

...

[lightworker888]

We have been here for nearly a month and this is our first March visit. I have found the number of cars has increased but the thing I notice more is that the parking lots are fuller and we have to be extra careful backing up, particularly in the diagonal parking spots.

I haven't found the RAB's to be particularly treacherous, though I do keep a close eye on any car near me and I use the left lane for going to the 3rd exit. I think that staggering positions is the easiest way to avoid collisions and using the signal lights. I keep up with the flow and it seems about the same speed as in the spring and fall.

Now the squares are definitely MUCH busier so we aren't going there much at night and look forward to the spring evenings, when crowds thin out.

LW888

[cappyjon431]

Sorry Cappy... I wasn't specific. I was referring the the woman in the grocery line, in front of you with more than 25 items. I was just curious, since she was right in front of you, did you lecture her on her inappropriate behavior or did you keep quiet ???

Actually the woman behind me in line said something before I had chance to formulate exactly what I was going to say (contrary to what others might of thought about my prior posts on this thread, I believe in at least trying to be diplomatic first). She asked the woman if she could see the sign that said "10 Items or Less?" The other woman responded that when she got into the line there was no one else waiting. The woman behind me replied that now there were two people behind her waiting. The offending party did apologize.

To me, it's just another example of "the rules don't apply to me" mentality that I find so pervasive here in TV.

[JoeC1947]

I observed another cigarette being tossed out of a cart with Wisconsin plate # P1tC1t. This time I yelled up to him at the next stop sign that they make portable ashtrays in a pleasant voice. he turned around and gave me a dumb look then proceeded to travel at about 10mph I assume to annoy me. I passed him and he yelled "the golf cart speed limit is 20MPH" I yelled back that that's all my cart will do. You really cant fix stupid!

[zcaveman]

Actually the woman behind me in line said something before I had chance to formulate exactly what I was going to say (contrary to what others might of thought about my prior posts on this thread, I believe in at least trying to be diplomatic first). She asked the woman if she could see the sign that said "10 Items or Less?" The other woman responded that when she got into the line there was no one else waiting. The woman behind me replied that now there were two people behind her waiting. The offending party did apologize.

To me, it's just another example of "the rules don't apply to me" mentality that I find so pervasive here in TV.

I have been standing in the regular line with a full cart when the 10 and less clerk told me to come over to her register. I am not a fool. I go to her line. If a line starts behind me after that, what can I say. She invited me over.

[red tail]

I observed another cigarette being tossed out of a cart with Wisconsin plate # P1tC1t. This time I yelled up to him at the next stop sign that they make portable ashtrays in a pleasant voice. he turned around and gave me a dumb look then proceeded to travel at about 10mph I assume to annoy me. I passed him and he yelled "the golf cart speed limit is 20MPH" I yelled back that that's all my cart will do. You really cant fix stupid!

i havnt heard nonsense like this since junior high school

[Barefoot]

[quote=cappyjon431;471151]

[RichieB]

I have been standing in the regular line with a full cart when the 10 and less clerk told me to come over to her register. I am not a fool. I go to her line. If a line starts behind me after that, what can I say. She invited me over.

I really wonder what makes some people tick.

I was in the supermarket a few hours ago, walking toward the checkout with 3 items. Someone with a full cart of groceries raced to the checkout, and got ahead of me. She proceeded to give me a sheepish look, to which I said, "You know, I could have been out of here before you could have gotten all your stuff on the belt." To which she said, "Sorry."

Go figure..........

[JoeC1947]

i havnt heard nonsense like this since junior high school

You are soooooooooo wonderful! Let me guess, you smoke and throw your butts on the ground too!

[red tail]

grind em out in my hand then eat them

[Bill-n-Brillo]

.................................(wait for it).................................. :popcorn:

Bill :)

[cappyjon431]

I have been standing in the regular line with a full cart when the 10 and less clerk told me to come over to her register. I am not a fool. I go to her line. If a line starts behind me after that, what can I say. She invited me over.

That is certainly acceptable, and I can't be certain that that isn't what happened in my example. On the other hand, the overly apologetic tone of the cashier to myself and the person behind me in line led me to believe that the woman went in that line without being "invited."

[red tail]

.................................(wait for it).................................. :popcorn:

Bill :)

ha ha....popcorn for the junior high debate team.

[RichieB]

ha ha....popcorn for the junior high debate team.

HAH ! :a20:

[cappyjon431]

I really wonder what makes some people tick.

I was in the supermarket a few hours ago, walking toward the checkout with 3 items. Someone with a full cart of groceries raced to the checkout, and got ahead of me. She proceeded to give me a sheepish look, to which I said, "You know, I could have been out of here before you could have gotten all your stuff on the belt." To which she said, "Sorry."

Go figure..........

Sometimes I mourn the loss of civility in today's society.

We all make misakes while driving and accidents do happen. We all occasionally have lapses in judgement, as we are human. It is this sense of entitlement, this "it's all about me" attitude, the belief that "the rules don't apply to me," the rudeness that drives me nuts. Some people just don't get it, or they do get it but are willing to have others walk all over them without any consequences. I understand wanting to avoid confrontation, but I also believe that sometimes confrontation is necessary.

[JoeC1947]

grind em out in my hand then eat them

I think I'm starting to like you....:bowdown:

[RichieB]

Sometimes I mourn the loss of civility in today's society.

We all make misakes while driving and accidents do happen. We all occasionally have lapses in judgement, as we are human. It is this sense of entitlement, this "it's all about me" attitude, the belief that "the rules don't apply to me," the rudeness that drives me nuts. Some people just don't get it, or they do get it but are willing to have others walk all over them without any consequences. I understand wanting to avoid confrontation, but I also believe that sometimes confrontation is necessary.

I have been thinking about this ALOT lately, because it seems that things like this happen to me EVERY DAY ! The other day, some kid was going in the opposite direction, and just blew through a stop sign, and HE WAS FLYING ! Another time last week, I was leaving the bank parking lot, and somebody speeds into the lot through the exit, and flips me the digit.

It just seems to me that, generally, as a people, and a society, we have lost respect for one another. It started a while ago, it got a little better, I thought, when 9/11 happened, but it has gotten worse - MUCH WORSE !

My rant for the day.........

[lightworker888]

It just occurred to me that perhaps it is about the "filter" that we see the world through. If you hold up a blue filter, then the red light will always be purple to you. Maybe if we held up the filter that everyone is doing his/her best give their history, understanding and life circumstance etc.etc . and doesn't get up in the morning with any intention to make anyone's life unhappy, then we might be able to get into more of an allowing space. If we believe that everyone is "out for himself" then we will code every action we see as a reflection of that belief and it will just reinforce that belief. The question that I do my best to ask myself is, "does it serve me to keep seeing things this way?" and if it makes me upset then I question why I am still looking through that filter, knowing that I am the only one that can put the filter down. It is just hard to remember to do that when I am in the throws of an emotional moment.

My DH came up with a comment that it is hard to believe that given the life history and circumstance and energy available etc. etc. of any given person, we would be doing the same thing. That always puts things into perspective for me! I guess that gives a bit of a different spin on the saying "there but for the grace of God, go I".

I'll get off my soapbox now!

LW888

[rubicon]

After reading the last 67 posts I really am glad I moved here.Hmmmm

[Indydealmaker]

Injustices Tolerated are Injustices Perpetuated.

[cappyjon431]

Injustices Tolerated are Injustices Perpetuated.

My feelings exactly (although much more concise!).

[carm310]

.................................(wait for it).................................. :popcorn:

Bill :)

Bill, your response is the only thing on the forum today that made me chuckle....a brutal day for some on TOTV!

Life is short and it seems if you drive in TV it may end up being shorter. I must say the posts over the last few months regarding driving in TV (cars, carts, bikes or what ever mode of transportation you choose) gives me pause like no other time in the 5 or 6 years I have been coming to TV. We actually witnessed some of the madness earlier this month when we came for a very short visit.

With that said, we purchased our first cart today for pick-up on our next visit. YEAH! No more rentals! The question is....will we drive it and risk life and limb or leave it in the garage?:gc:

[Bill-n-Brillo]

HA!! Glad you got a chuckle out of it, Carm! :)

Worry not about driving your new golf cart. Just be careful and drive defensively: operate off the assumption that every other cart you see will do something wrong - and plan accordingly in your driving. I think you'll be just fine!!

And congrats on the new cart!

Bill :)

[grayesun]

I could already report another incident or two of vehicular incivility since this thread started...occurring right here in TV. This seems to be an escalating situation - which puzzles me in our supposed "older - wiser" and safety-conscious community.

Do we have to accept that others folks among us will never yield, never be civil, never show patience or restraint or good common sense or just general decency to fellow mankind. Are there "type A's" out there that look at a trip to Publix or Home Depot as competitive racing challenge, or maybe trying to set a new speed record traveling from a home in Chatham to a tee time at Havana...somehow this doesn't seem too far fetched?

No answers from me on this, but I know there are more than enough angry, careless, speeding or impatient for whatever reason, entitled airheads travelling the roads of life around us...but, there seems to be a good quantity of decent considerate folks among us also, as evidenced by this thread. It's not easy, but let's try not to jump over to the other team, by picking up their bad habits/behavior. Thanks, it's a pleasure sharing life's roads with those that share back.

[thistrucksforyou]

If you hit, you better kill me, because if you don't I am going to own all that you have and then some. You can keep your SO, has he/she would have be to feed and that would eat into the enjoyment of me spending your money.

A ridiculous statement...

[mrfixit]

grind em out in my hand then eat them

....OMG.....Laughed so hard I nearly wet myself..
...that got my blubber gut moving so much that my stomach still hurts.
....made me hungry too...gonna go check the streets for tossed cigs.


Good one ........

[red tail]

That has not been my experience. While I have seen problems with contractors and younger folks on TV's roads, in my personal experience I have seen more incidents with seniors than I have with younger folks (which makes sense, as there are proportionally more seniors on roads in TV). Very recently I had an older woman lay on the horn behind me on El Camino Real because I was in an LSV (doing 26 mph) in the right lane and she couldn't be troubled to go around me in the left lane. Even more recently I had an older woman go forward through two parking spaces at Barnes and Noble (instead of backing out like she was supposed to) without looking and almost cutting me off, almost causing an accident. No big deal, people make mistakes and she should've just been more careful--BUT then she had the nerve to flip me off. It is a good thing I was in an LSV because I tried to catch up with her and discuss it, but she fled. Even this morning me wife was coming home from a long shift at the hospital and some jerk (who she describes as "older") stuck his head out the passenger side window of a vehicle (he was the passenger) and yelled at my wife to drive on the path (even though her LSV is street legal AND permitted on El Camino Real).

There are street signs all over TV saying "Share the Road," but maybe it is difficult for some folks to read.

Please understand I am not saying older drivers aren't competent drivers, only that i've seen more rudeness from older drivers than I have from younger folks. It surprises me. I just hope things improve a little in the next month or so when there are fewer people on our roads.

since you are in your 40s most everyone is going to be 'older' !

[cappyjon431]

since you are in your 40s most everyone is going to be 'older' !

Actually, I just turned 50, but i'm not sure of your point? I'm still capable of knowing what drivers in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s look like.;)

[CarGuys]

Bill,

We could put all the Carts on a path rail system like Juarassic Park! Naaa that did not work out well did it?

Or how about mandating all Carts have new technology adaptative Radar Cruise Control!
Naaaaaaa?

Good thing Ralph Nader does not read TOTV. He would kill our Carts like the Corvair-

Guess we will have to learn to drive with good ole Common Sense! naaaaaaaaaaaaaa-

Maybe back to the Rail System:ohdear::faint:

[senior citizen]

...

[JoeC1947]

All good ideas for future travel. But, common sense will have to win out.



We've taken many a road trip in our day and are familiar with all kinds of driving conditions, but we always say it would be nice to have a "time machine of sorts" or a car that you program and then can take a nap while it takes you there. Cruise control of today's auto's isn't quite there yet.

Don't we have that around here already?:laugh:

[looneycat]

No kidding. We almost got creamed on a round a bout. A guy making a left turn from the right lane. And he layed on the horn at us. Another one just drove into the round a bout without looking

ummmm, I'm just trying to visualize this because the only left turn would be into the center circle??? do you mean change lanes maybe?

[cappyjon431]

ummmm, I'm just trying to visualize this because the only left turn would be into the center circle??? do you mean change lanes maybe?

I'm not certain, but I think Angie was talking about someone taking the third exit in a roundabout, which is essentially a left turn.

If you look at a roundabout like a four way intersection, the third exit is a left turn. You should be in the INSIDE (left) lane if you you are going to take the third exit.

The new signs explain it pretty well.

[Barefoot]

No kidding. We almost got creamed on a round a bout. A guy making a left turn from the right lane. And he layed on the horn at us. Another one just drove into the round a bout without looking

Angie, that is just normal driving behaviour for The Villages. When you venture out in your car or cart, you can bet your boots that some of the other drivers will do unsafe and irrational things. Please drive defensively.

[Golfer in Sanibel]

Is this just a retirement community thing? I remember riding with my grandfather years ago in Bradenton when we came from Ohio to help celibrate his 90th birthday. He drove right through stop signs and red lights. Not fast, but he scared the poop out of me. Being that I'm just now moving to TV, I realized I must become much more of a defensive driver or I'm going to get creamed. As a young man my brothers and I used to comment about near misses from the "whiteheads". Now I are one. ;) The fact is old people had just about as many accidents as teenagers.

I also have witnessed some seasoned TV residents who still don't know the rules about driving on the round-abouts. Some have even argued with me about the rules while, according to the round-about flyer and the round-about signs, they were clearly wrong. I'll bet many of the people reading this post don't drive them correctly.

[Mikeod]

[QUOTE=Golfer in Sanibel;476374
I also have witnessed some seasoned TV residents who still don't know the rules about driving on the round-abouts. Some have even argued with me about the rules while, according to the round-about flyer and the round-about signs, they were clearly wrong. I'll bet many of the people reading this post don't drive them correctly.[/QUOTE]
Yes. The new signs are great, but I'll bet there are many residents, seasoned as well as new, that just "know" how to navigate them and don't bother looking at the signs or paying attention to them. The only way to deal with it is to anticipate the other driver will do the wrong thing. :shrug:

[George Bieniaszek]

My wife and I were on driving our cart on St. Charles today heading over to Colony Plaza and coming in the opposite direction was a 2 passenger golfcart with 2 adults seated in the cart along with 2 teenagers standing in the golf bag well holding onto the roof of the cart!!! UNBELIEVABLE!!! Even a moment's inattention, a bump in the road, an unexpected turn, etc. and there could have been a tragic accident.

Did I miss the memo that we have to trade our brains in for a Villager ID Card!!

[rubicon]

It is no surprise. If you look at the traffic flow design of The villages, roads, multi-modals paths roundabouts it becomes readily apparent that it was not designed to handle the increases in traffic flow. Bear in mind this is not a gated community and you have non residents who use roads and cartpaths.
As The Villages expand so do surrounding towns and cities

[looneycat]

I'm not certain, but I think Angie was talking about someone taking the third exit in a roundabout, which is essentially a left turn.

If you look at a roundabout like a four way intersection, the third exit is a left turn. You should be in the INSIDE (left) lane if you you are going to take the third exit.

The new signs explain it pretty well.

you would still be making a right turn. I do know exactly what you are talking about when you go 270 degrees around only to have someone go more than 90 in the right lane cutting off your exit. Like it said in the book you got to take your permit exam - Drive Defensively.

[CaptJohn]

I tried something the other day and decided to stick with it. Instead of complaining about people passing me all of the time and, instead of me trying to conform to their bad driving habits, I decided to drop my speed to 5mph BELOW the posted speed limit and keep it there with cruise control. It was calming to watch the nuts speeding all over the place. I will do this from now on and I encourage all people who feel the same way to join me. If we get enough people to participate we can slow this place down a bit. Maybe we can get the nuts into a "if you can't beat them, join then them" thing. Try it and see for yourself. It makes me feel better!

I've been doing this for years on the civilized parts (is there such a thing?) of the interstates. Works great. Actually you can keep the speed limit and they'll still fly by you. Just smile at them! You almost never have to cut off the cruise control because of running up on slow traffic since you are it. Then you pass them at rest stops and gas stations and they come from behind again to pass you!. Didn't every read the 'tortoise and hare story'?

[JoeC1947]

I've been doing this for years on the civilized parts (is there such a thing?) of the interstates. Works great. Actually you can keep the speed limit and they'll still fly by you. Just smile at them! You almost never have to cut off the cruise control because of running up on slow traffic since you are it. Then you pass them at rest stops and gas stations and they come from behind again to pass you!. Didn't every read the 'tortoise and hare story'?

My favorite is when the speeder doesn't have easy pass and he's waiting at the toll booth while I breeze through then he gets to pass me again!

[Mikeod]

you would still be making a right turn. I do know exactly what you are talking about when you go 270 degrees around only to have someone go more than 90 in the right lane cutting off your exit. Like it said in the book you got to take your permit exam - Drive Defensively.

Please read the post again. The point is to consider the roundabout as if it is normal intersection. You would not make a left turn at a regular intersection from the right lane, nor a right turn from the left lane. To go to the third exit from where you enter the roundabout in the right lane, you are essentially making left turn from the right lane.