Golf carts and YOU

**bdub** · 08-11-2009, 04:06 PM

Originally Posted by aggieb

until you have witnessed or experienced a golf cart related death, you'll rethink having them in sowal. when adults aren't responsible enough to drive them and death is a result, children aren't either. the story is, groomsmen playing golf and drinking. the day of or before the wedding (can't remember) groom's brother goes flying down steep hill. golf cart flips, hits head directly on golf path. rushed to hospital, died. you think it can't/won't/doesn't happen. it does.

geesh guys --- "groomsmen playing golf and drinking"

That's not me -- and has absolutely nothing to do with law abiding citizens operating within the strictures of the law.

I can point to thousands of incidents where people driving traditional cars have done tragically stupid things --- many involving alcohol. But we don't hear people saying, "no more cars because SOME people will use them stupidly."

Really, cut me some slack. lets draw the line here between those who obey the law -- and those who do not. If you don't lump me in with spring break yahoos -- I won't lump you in with those who drink and drive in more traditional vehicles.

please lets focus on those who do not obey the law.

GOLF CARTS are illegal on 30A period.

NEV's are legal if registerd, licensed -- and operated on roadways where the speed limit is 35MPH or less.

**Miss Kitty** · 08-11-2009, 04:16 PM

Do you have a pic of the NEV and a golfcart? Post them!

**SWGB** · 08-11-2009, 04:57 PM

Went to get cigarette's from the store this afternoon. I saw 3 golf carts on the road. None of them had license plates.

**Everytime** · 08-11-2009, 05:05 PM

Originally Posted by bdub

just a quibble -- but the state of Florida has deemed that the NEV's (not the golf carts) DO meet the requirements to be driven on roadways where the speed limit is 35 or less.

Technically speaking, 30-A is a roadway where the speed limit is 45 or less. It is 45 in some sections between Eastern Lake and Alys Beach and in some sections between Watercolor and Blue Mountain Beach.

AliKat's suggestion is problematic. Not everyone driving on 30-A is just out for a sight-seeing cruise, enjoying the view. Some people do have schedules, commitments, places to be. And even some who are on vacation don't want to miss an extra 30 minutes of beach time because they got behind golf carts on the way to and from Publix...

**AliKat** · 08-11-2009, 06:16 PM

I agree that vacationing doesn't give you the license to be a complete moron, but I do believe people on vacation get in a lacksidasical frame of mind. Not saying it is right or wrong just saying. Also I have seen just as many looney toon locals as there are visitors.

Also I say if the golf cart syndrome is that much of a problem, which I live here and don't believe it is, I would leave home a few moments early to make sure you are not late for your appointment or commitment in the busy season. This is what I did living in Atl where traffic is unpredictable. In fact living here now I will take a slow golf cart in front of me over a 5 car pile up anyday. Wouldn't trade it for the world.

Peachtree City has been able to successfully incorporate golf carts into their city with a network of 90 miles of golf, bike, and running trail. I think that maybe So Wal could do the same if golf carts in road is such an issue. I know it costs money, but big government is in a spending spree right now so anything is possible.

**scooterbug44** · 08-11-2009, 06:30 PM

Originally Posted by bdub

just a quibble -- but the state of Florida has deemed that the NEV's (not the golf carts) DO meet the requirements to be driven on roadways where the speed limit is 35 or less.

Crack down on those who are not licensed -- do not have a tag -- and do not have a vehicle that meets the requirements of the state. There is a difference.

And what I keep saying is that 30-A is NOT one of those roads. A significant portion of 30-A has a speed limit of 45 mph.

**SWGB** · 08-11-2009, 08:31 PM

Originally Posted by AliKat

I agree that vacationing doesn't give you the license to be a complete moron, but I do believe people on vacation get in a lacksidasical frame of mind. Not saying it is right or wrong just saying. Also I have seen just as many looney toon locals as there are visitors.

Also I say if the golf cart syndrome is that much of a problem, which I live here and don't believe it is, I would leave home a few moments early to make sure you are not late for your appointment or commitment in the busy season. This is what I did living in Atl where traffic is unpredictable. In fact living here now I will take a slow golf cart in front of me over a 5 car pile up anyday. Wouldn't trade it for the world.

Peachtree City has been able to successfully incorporate golf carts into their city with a network of 90 miles of golf, bike, and running trail. I think that maybe So Wal could do the same if golf carts in road is such an issue. I know it costs money, but big government is in a spending spree right now so anything is possible.

Way to get that big government swipe in. Right now if I have to be at a meeting in BMB from Seagrove I can make that in 10 minutes during the winter, but wait I have to leave an additional 5 minutes early to account for snow birds. Once in season I have to automatically leave 15 minutes to make it on time and if it's a holiday or busy period I have to add 5-10 minutes to that depending on the majority of states liscense plates I've seen recently. So now I've got to add another 5 minutes to that to account for golf carts. I'm now up to 30 minutes for what should be a 10 minute drive.

Now I can avoid all of that by going up 395 to 98 and then back down 83, but now I'm at the same amount of time, a long distance, and the possibility that I'm going to get stuck behind an accident at 331.

Why do I, as a full time resident, have to keep making adjustments and compromises for tourists?

Originally Posted by scooterbug44

And what I keep saying is that 30-A is NOT one of those roads. A significant portion of 30-A has a speed limit of 45 mph.

Actually you would be wrong. The minority of 30A is over 35mph. For instance it does not begin to be 45 mph until after the main entrance to Water Sound and that only continues just past Deer Lake. The next 45 mph zone isn't until after you cross Western Lake as the bridges are restricted to 45 mph. There is then a small stretch from Grayton to Grayton Preserve. From there you won't find a 45 mph zone until after Butler Elementary.

**Everytime** · 08-11-2009, 10:19 PM

Originally Posted by AliKat

Peachtree City has been able to successfully incorporate golf carts into their city with a network of 90 miles of golf, bike, and running trail. I think that maybe So Wal could do the same if golf carts in road is such an issue. I know it costs money, but big government is in a spending spree right now so anything is possible.

But you are apparently talking about a specific trail designated for golf carts, bikes and runners, not a state-designated County Highway which is designed for vehicular traffic. There is a multi-use path alongside 30-A, but motorized vehicles, including golf carts, may not use that path, (and as someone who runs and bikes on that path, I don't want golf carts there either). Between the road (30-A), the multi-use path, and private property which is already close to the road and/or path in most areas, I don't see the addition of a cart path as being geographically practical.

**bdub** · 08-11-2009, 10:43 PM

Originally Posted by SWGB

Right now if I have to be at a meeting in BMB from Seagrove I can make that in 10 minutes during the winter, but wait I have to leave an additional 5 minutes early to account for snow birds. Once in season I have to automatically leave 15 minutes to make it on time and if it's a holiday or busy period I have to add 5-10 minutes to that depending on the majority of states liscense plates I've seen recently. So now I've got to add another 5 minutes to that to account for golf carts. I'm now up to 30 minutes for what should be a 10 minute drive.

Why do I, as a full time resident, have to keep making adjustments and compromises for tourists?

umm, it might be because you have chosen to live in one of the most glorious vacation hotspots in the country. This is what I was alluding to when I mentioned that I often detect an "us vs. them" mentality on this site (see earlier post -- and the slapdown I received from Scooterbug).

Those tourists support your economy and your tax base-- and yes some tourists are boneheads and should be gently educated as to proper beach etiquette.

But complaining about tourists when you live in Sowal -- is sort of like complaining about snow when you live in Alaska. It sort of comes with the territory.

You are indeed correct that the vast majority of 30A is 35 MPH (not 45). I know I'm beginning to sound like a broken record, but lets jump on the people not living within the boundaries of the law -- and let the law abiding among us alone.

**AliKat** · 08-11-2009, 11:18 PM

I did have to get my "big government" poke in.

No really I do see both points on this one. Personally it would be nice if there was designated golf course trails that is all I am saying. Personally I would be scared #@!%less to drive down 30a in a golf cart, but that is me. It does suck to get stuck behind one and I totally understand the frustration, but on the other hand I do understand the visitors wanting the full vacation experience and golf carting to local hot spots is a part of that "I can't do this at home feeling". Guess I am really neutral on this one think every one is so heated because it is end of summer and everyone is just over it. Kind of like when the in-laws come good for a period of time, but ready for it to end at a certain point.

It is possible though to have a golf cart, bike, and run trail all rolled into one that is why I pointed out the Peachtree City model. All 3 have shared the path there for well over a decade. They even have golf cart police that make sure everyone is minding their p's and q's.

**TooFarTampa** · 08-11-2009, 11:35 PM

bdub, if I see you puttering on your not-golfcart from Watersound to Rosemary I will wave. You sound responsible.

Just don't head west!

As for too many of the rest ... why the heck are there even rent-a-golfcart businesses on 30A? Where are such vehicles truly useful? Grove by the Sea? Watersound? Seacrest? Rosemary? Doing donuts at Chateau de Paris?

It just sounds boneheaded and, as aggieb so nicely illustrates

, like a recipe for disaster.

**SWGB** · 08-12-2009, 03:36 AM

bdub I actually looked for a "vehicle" that fit the description you gave. I was going to honk and wave hi.

It probably is just the end of season "puck 'em all" stress, but since the local law doesn't go after speeders, motorized vehicles on the bike path, or any number of other infractions I don't see them suddenly waking up and going after golf carts.

As for a separate path for golf carts, sure I'm all for it. However the golf cart owner would have to purchase a permit to use it to offset the cost. Cost of building, land acquisition, and maintenance. Shouldn't be more than $80-$100 thousand per owner*.

*per year

**Desso** · 08-12-2009, 08:13 AM

First of all, you just look silly riding around in a golf cart. Further to the point, stay of the bike/walk path, don't allow your children to drive, and stop boozing and endangering the public and your family with your toy. No exceptions. I see it all the time and I am just amazed at the reckless and arrogant nature of these people, Is it going to take a tragedy to get something done about the problem? Probably. Griping and hand-wringing about it doesn't help. The Us vs. Them mentality seems to work both ways,with people thinking just because they spend money here on vacation, it allows Them to do as they wish. I vacation in other places quite often, and conduct myself as a visitor with respect of the law and local customs. It isn't difficult.
And to bdub, keep on truckin', you have the right idea:)

**tistheseason** · 08-12-2009, 08:40 AM

Personally I'd rather see people bike or walk the few mile radius that the golf cart would allow them to go. . . .but I have to commend bdub for making his points so articulately!! I wouldn't boot him off of 30A. And I'd rather his not-golfcart than a car. But what I love about the area is how easy it is to get around on a bike or walking!!

**tsutcli** · 08-12-2009, 10:51 AM

Going home last night at 11PM after a 10 hour stint at work and got into a line of cars going east at 10-15 mph around Wheelhouse. This kept up till the Tom Thumb, where a golf cart ( not the legal kind ) loaded with kids turned North onto the road next to TT. I was not amused and demonstrates why all carts should be banned from rental co. on 30a. I would have followed it if I wasn't so tired and wanted to get home. Calling the police does no good since they give you the story that they, personally, have to observe the infraction before they can act. Another case of police acting "stupidly".

**RiverOtter** · 08-12-2009, 11:29 AM

Originally Posted by InletBchOwnr

Now don't get me started on bicycles that want us to believe "We are traffic, too," when in reality they are traffic impediments, too. But then again, that's just me.....hehehe

I can't believe it took this many posts before you started busting on the cyclists.

Originally Posted by cabythesea

The hostility of this thread makes me think some of you do not belong on 30A - chill out - life is short. Live and let live - I'm begging you!

Typical. Just do a search on the Biking and this will look like a love fest.

Originally Posted by bdub

The NEV is a new idea -- but an idea with great merit. Why do you need a full-blown SUV to run errands in your immediate neighborhood? Clean ... green ... and for the moment, a heckuva tax break.

You have to understand that most of the folks that claim to be "Green", Enlightened, All About the Environment, are until something delays their commute by 5 to 30 seconds.

**Here4Good** · 08-12-2009, 01:45 PM

Originally Posted by SWGB

Went to get cigarette's from the store this afternoon. I saw 3 golf carts on the road. None of them had license plates.

So, no use asking you how that quitting thing is going, huh?

I was hoping maybe since you hadn't mentioned it in a while, it had worked.

**Desso** · 08-12-2009, 02:04 PM

My wife just called and told me the same idiot and his kids were wheeling around Redfish Village on the bike/walk path, daughter possibly 8-10 years old driving, in and out of the street, and Pop with his brew. The situation I spoke to earlier, replayed today. This dear, old Dad needs a ticket for numerous traffic infractions, embarrassed in front of his children, and an earful from his wife.

**SWGB** · 08-12-2009, 02:51 PM

Originally Posted by Here4Good

So, no use asking you how that quitting thing is going, huh?

I was hoping maybe since you hadn't mentioned it in a while, it had worked.

Yeah, still smoking. I'll quit one day.

**sunspotbaby** · 08-13-2009, 09:38 AM

Originally Posted by SWGB

Way to get that big government swipe in. Right now if I have to be at a meeting in BMB from Seagrove I can make that in 10 minutes during the winter, but wait I have to leave an additional 5 minutes early to account for snow birds. Once in season I have to automatically leave 15 minutes to make it on time and if it's a holiday or busy period I have to add 5-10 minutes to that depending on the majority of states liscense plates I've seen recently. So now I've got to add another 5 minutes to that to account for golf carts. I'm now up to 30 minutes for what should be a 10 minute drive.

Now I can avoid all of that by going up 395 to 98 and then back down 83, but now I'm at the same amount of time, a long distance, and the possibility that I'm going to get stuck behind an accident at 331.

Why do I, as a full time resident, have to keep making adjustments and compromises for tourists?

Actually you would be wrong. The minority of 30A is over 35mph. For instance it does not begin to be 45 mph until after the main entrance to Water Sound and that only continues just past Deer Lake. The next 45 mph zone isn't until after you cross Western Lake as the bridges are restricted to 45 mph. There is then a small stretch from Grayton to Grayton Preserve. From there you won't find a 45 mph zone until after Butler Elementary.

To me, this is akin to saying:
"why should I have to keep making adjustments in my morning commute just because everyone else has to be at work at 8 a.m. too" If you've ever lived in a city of millions, this is a common occurance on a daily basis.

we have to make adjustments no matter where we live or what roads we travel.

**vab** · 08-14-2009, 11:44 PM

If you want to go faster than a golf cart...take a faster road. What about 98?

**Everytime** · 08-15-2009, 01:12 PM

Originally Posted by vab

If you want to go faster than a golf cart...take a faster road. What about 98?

Or, if you want to drive a golf cart, drive it in communities and on roads where it's legal.

This is my 100th post.

**Seayalater** · 08-15-2009, 05:24 PM

Originally Posted by ray

I bought a home on 30-a to get away from the panama city scene of golf carts and scooters on the road. I'm now seeing golf carts parked on the bike paths to several private beach access areas on 30-a which i think is illegal i can understand the gym cars but kids zooming around on 30-a is crazy. my question is it seems the culprit is butterfly bikes as i see all the golf carts and scooters there. are there golf carts street legal? those scooters go very slow and i'm seeing people drying them in 45 mph zones which is illegal

I find it very annoying when I get behind a novice "scooter gang" cruising 30A at what seems like 5 mph, wobbling all over the road and making up their own rules at 4-way stops. Kinda like the Seaside guests that assume that you will stop for them when they ramble across the road at any spot , any time .

I'd rather have complaints here than be anywhere else! Yes, I guess it's the charm!

**Miss Kitty** · 08-16-2009, 03:26 AM

Originally Posted by Seayalater

I find it very annoying when I get behind a novice "scooter gang" cruising 30A at what seems like 5 mph, wobbling all over the road and making up their own rules at 4-way stops. Kinda like the Seaside guests that assume that you will stop for them when they ramble across the road at any spot , any time .

I'd rather have complaints here than be anywhere else! Yes, I guess it's the charm!

Excellent first post!

Please stick around and post some more!