The Villages is reminding bicyclists and golf cart operators to be cognizant of safety rules, particularly when they are sharing the multi-modal paths.
A bicyclist from New York on Jan. 25 was transported by ambulance to Ocala Regional Medical Center after she was run over by a golf cart near the entrance to the Village of Polo Ridge. The Villager driving the golf cart was ticketed as a result of the accident.
Do you think golf carts and bicyclists are doing enough to share the road in Florida’s Friendliest Hometown? Share your thoughts in a Letter to the Editor at this link: https://www.villages-news.com/submit-letters-editor/
The Villages District Office has released a safety reminder and has asked that golf carts, bicyclists and pedestrians look out for one another when sharing the multi-modal paths and other roadways in Florida’s Friendliest Hometown.
The following tips are offered for bicyclists:
• Get acquainted with traffic laws; bicyclists must follow the same rules as motorists
• Remain alert, keep your head up and look around; watch for opening car doors and other hazards
• Use hand signals when turning and use extra care at intersections
• Before entering traffic, stop and look left, right, left again and over your shoulder
Meanwhile, motorized vehicles, including golf carts are asked to do their share:
• Make sure you are giving bikes plenty of space to avoid a collision – at least three feet. If the bicyclist has to move quickly to avoid something in the road, you’ll be far enough away that it won’t be an issue.
• Keep at least three feet of space between you and the bike – more if possible
•Pass on the left. Be patient.
• You should only pass when it’s safe, even if this means driving behind a cyclist for a little while.
• Always check your blind spots for cyclists.
• As always, pay special attention at a crosswalk.