low speed vehicles rules?

**tistheseason** · 07-04-2012, 02:17 PM

What are the rules? I've seen several teenagers (13-14) driving them and not following road rules. They have been driving on sidewalks, not stopping at stop signs. . .If they are allowed on the streets shouldn't you have to have a license and follow regular road rules? If the problem is ignorance of the laws, are the rental companies held responsible?

**30A Skunkape** · 07-04-2012, 05:14 PM

Nobody is going to care until the first fatality involving these things occurs. Then your questions will be clarified.

**tistheseason** · 07-05-2012, 06:57 AM

I think you may be right skunky! Which is terrible!

**electriccartcompany** · 07-05-2012, 07:05 AM

If you own a low speed vehicle you have to be 16 years old with a valid drivers license and if you rent from us then you have to be 21 to rent and 18 to drive. Electric cart company provides an individual insurance policy with each rental it sends out. We are not some fly by night company. As for underage drivers, please notify us if you see underage drivers with our carts and we will promptly resolve the issue. Hope that helps.

**rdelong43065** · 07-05-2012, 02:08 PM

Originally Posted by electriccartcompany

If you own a low speed vehicle you have to be 16 years old with a valid drivers license and if you rent from us then you have to be 21 to rent and 18 to drive. Electric cart company provides an individual insurance policy with each rental it sends out. We are not some fly by night company. As for underage drivers, please notify us if you see underage drivers with our carts and we will promptly resolve the issue. Hope that helps.

Thank you Jon for the response. How do we tell which are your carts from the others? Is there a sign on them?

**lenzoe** · 07-06-2012, 09:30 AM

Just out of curiosity, I googled for 'vrbo south walton "golf cart"' and it came back with over 110,000 hits. Wow. Seems like an awful lot of off-the-beach rentals are supplying these things. Some of them are in enclosed communities like Watersound. But a lot of them are not. Even if the golf cart company customers obey the company rules, I wouldn't be surprised when guests in rental houses bend those rules. What's it gonna hurt if my 12 year old runs around with the golf cart? It's fun. The owner's not around to complain.

I wonder. If I have a rental property advertising it comes with a free golf cart, what's my liability if my guests then go out on the road with it illegally after I've made them sign a contract saying they won't (wink, wink) and then they get into a major accident? Any lawyers out there.

**electriccartcompany** · 07-08-2012, 08:10 AM

There will be an " electric cart company" logo on each of our vehicles.

**tistheseason** · 07-08-2012, 08:57 AM

Thanks for the response -- I don't think the ones I saw were yours. But I will take note of it next time. I'm still not a fan of these, but I'm glad that - at least one company - is willing to be responsible about it! So, people, if you must have one, please get it from this guy!

**Beach Runner** · 07-08-2012, 09:13 AM

If a golf cart isn't street legal, can it go on the bike path? It would sure be nice to be able to bypass all of the traffic in Seaside and Seagrove. During the crowded summer season, we could actually patronize the businesses in Seaside and Grayton. Parking a car in Seaside is impossible in the summer, so until the summer rental season is over, we have stopped and will stop going there. Speaking of which, what are the rules for parking golf carts in Seaside? Do the have to be parked in a space that would normally just be used by a regular vehicle?

**NotDeadYet** · 07-08-2012, 09:43 AM

If a golf cart isn't street legal, can it go on the bike path?

No. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the bike path.
It's posted in the rules. However, there is not enough signage.

**Beach Runner** · 07-08-2012, 11:23 AM

Originally Posted by NotDeadYet

No. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the bike path.
It's posted in the rules. However, there is not enough signage.

Thanks for replying. Guess I'll go to Plan B and get a three-speed tricycle with baskets to carry home groceries from Publix. Plus use it as transportation to Seaside and not have to hunt for a parking spot.

**Lake View Too** · 07-08-2012, 12:43 PM

Yesterday, I saw one of these "low speed vehicles" (golf cart) traveling very slowly on 30-A near Eastern Lake. A big old SUV tried to pass it, on a curve. The big old SUV couldn't accelerate very fast, and, to make a long story short, came within about three feet of hitting another big SUV head-on. It was as close a call as I have ever seen, and it was caused by a golf cart, that should never have been allowed on the highway.

**Teresa** · 07-08-2012, 01:13 PM

I have seen quite a few low speed vehicles around town lately - these are new to me - not the same as golf carts. So far, I haven't encountered any problem with the drivers or speed, etc. I have experienced plenty of problems with CARS going 10 mph when I'm trying to pick up my kid and there is no way to escape the lunacy! It is summer and I believe in slowing down and being safe and patient. But come on!!!

Sorry for the whiney whine. I usually try to stay off the lovely Scenic Hwy 30A during peak times but lately haven't been able to avoid it.

**NotDeadYet** · 07-08-2012, 02:02 PM

It was as close a call as I have ever seen, and it was caused by a golf cart, that should never have been allowed on the highway.

I have to disagree. I am no big fan of the carts, but if an accident had happened it would have been caused by passing on a curve.

If you pass on a curve and cause a wreck, it doesn't matte what you are passing, you have no excuse in my book.

**Lake View Too** · 07-08-2012, 03:54 PM

Yes, you are right, but this was probably a case where stupidity breeds stupidity.

**Beach Runner** · 07-08-2012, 05:28 PM

We don't pass on 30A. But there's no point in passing because you'll still be in virtually standstill traffic ahead this time of year. That being said, there were several instances in which we were behind low-speed vehicles and the drivers courteously pulled off the road when they realized that they were the cause of traffic backups. Thanks, y'all.

**BeachbumAggie** · 07-09-2012, 06:11 PM

last year we noticed some golf carts, this year they were everywhere; I know that the speed limit isn't that high on 30A but it's more than 20mph and there are some stretches were it'd be nice to actually go the speed limit where there aren't crosswalks and such but the low speed vehicles seem to top out at 20mph; I'm not a fan!

**zretttig** · 07-09-2012, 10:41 PM

If you are in a golf cart stay on the golf course, or get out of the Frickin road. So annoying!

**pcbequalsheaven** · 07-18-2012, 03:03 PM

Unfortently, i have seen more near misses with golf carts than anything else in the area. I personally dont like the idea of having golf carts and mopeds being rented to tourists, who are just going to drive them without any regard for any of the traffic laws. they are unsafe even when they are being driven properly. I dont drive a large suv (although ive owned a couple), and i can only imagine how little will be left in the event of an accident. As for the mopeds, people drive these things like they stole them, and on top of that, they are not wearing helmets. I have owned a motorcycle (and survived my wreck, thanks to my helmet and my protective gear i was wearing). I think the age to rent these should be higher, like at least 25, like it is for car rental agencys.

**tsutcli** · 07-26-2012, 11:03 AM

What's the point in having rules if they aren't enforced? Where are the cops when you need them? Not that I think they would do anything that might upset a tourist - God forbid!!!!!!! Anyone here have access to statistics as to how many tickets are written for violations on 30a? It seems from the posts here that there are many violations occurring that the locals see daily (I drive 30a every day) but somehow I see little enforcement. You would think statistically a certain percentage would get caught.

**Gulfair** · 07-26-2012, 07:38 PM

Originally Posted by tsutcli

What's the point in having rules if they aren't enforced? Where are the cops when you need them? Not that I think they would do anything that might upset a tourist - God forbid!!!!!!! Anyone here have access to statistics as to how many tickets are written for violations on 30a? It seems from the posts here that there are many violations occurring that the locals see daily (I drive 30a every day) but somehow I see little enforcement. You would think statistically certain percentage would get caught.

This is 30A not Disneyworld or a country club. What commissioners/council people approved this ? I will fight to have these "cars" banned. Our trails and sidewalks
are for walking, running, and biking. This is a disgrace.

**Gulfair** · 07-26-2012, 07:42 PM

Originally Posted by electriccartcompany

if you own a low speed vehicle you have to be 16 years old with a valid drivers license and if you rent from us then you have to be 21 to rent and 18 to drive. Electric cart company provides an individual insurance policy with each rental it sends out. We are not some fly by night company. As for underage drivers, please notify us if you see underage drivers with our carts and we will promptly resolve the issue. Hope that helps.

these carts should never have been approved along 30a .. So dangerous !!

**tistheseason** · 07-26-2012, 10:06 PM

Originally Posted by Gulfair

these carts should never have been approved along 30a .. So dangerous !!

Would there have been a way to keep them out?

**30A Skunkape** · 07-27-2012, 06:58 AM

Originally Posted by tistheseason

Would there have been a way to keep them out?

I think Florida law is such that they can be legally operated on any stretch of road that has a posted speed limit less than 45 MPH. I guess a local ordinance could be passed but you best bet the owners of the golf cart rental outlets, that have bloomed like mushrooms after a rain, will fight it. Did you see my pic from earlier this week? These people are still in town, I wonder if the golf cart company has done anything...clearly violating the law going on 45 MPH 30-A, but they don't care.

**tailwagger** · 07-27-2012, 07:07 AM

And taking pictures while driving is a good idea?

**30A Skunkape** · 07-27-2012, 07:20 AM

Originally Posted by tailwagger

And taking pictures while driving is a good idea?

Probably not when you are going fast but at 25MPH it is not tricky, and it is not illegal. I figured a pic giving a concrete example of golf carts behaving badly would benefit our tourists who rent them and the owners of rental companies who might feel obligated to make sure their renters understand the laws and in this case maybe Classic Rentals would be a good neighbor and take the carts away from these crumbbum renters.

**Gulfair** · 07-27-2012, 08:04 AM

We need to coordinate a group to work to have these carts banned. An ordinance or
whatever is necessary. This is NOT DISNEYWORLD. 30A is not a safe place for these
"carts". Our walking and bike paths were intended for exactly that - NOT MOTORIZED
"CARTS". I saw two teenagers and a couple of adults nearly run down a few people at
Seaside and Seagrove last weekend on these "carts". SOMETHING HAS TO BE DONE !!

**Gulfair** · 07-27-2012, 08:05 AM

Passing an ordinance will solve the problem.

**Zebraspots** · 07-27-2012, 10:26 AM

Enforcing existing rules would solve the problem. Carts are already not allowed on the paths.

**tsutcli** · 07-27-2012, 02:38 PM

Driving west on 30a near watersound / camp creek lake and saw a golf cart (not LSV ) going east on the bikepath. As no cars were around I stopped and told the driver that they were not allowed on the path which is clearly marked. I was rudely told to bugger off and mind my own business - such is the respect for the local laws exhibited by your typical tourist in my experience. It's not the vehicles but the mentality of those that rent them. The business owners say they are doing what is required of them so I guess the only answer is to have them banned. Unless the police get serious about cracking down on these people things are only going to get worse. No warnings only serious fines.

**Zebraspots** · 07-27-2012, 05:15 PM

Golf carts have hit a new low - now they are driving down the path with their turn signal on!

**Gulfair** · 07-28-2012, 07:46 AM

Originally Posted by tsutcli

Driving west on 30a near watersound / camp creek lake and saw a golf cart (not LSV ) going east on the bikepath. As no cars were around I stopped and told the driver that they were not allowed on the path which is clearly marked. I was rudely told to bugger off and mind my own business - such is the respect for the local laws exhibited by your typical tourist in my experience. It's not the vehicles but the mentality of those that rent them. The business owners say they are doing what is required of them so I guess the only answer is to have them banned. Unless the police get serious about cracking down on these people things are only going to get worse. No warnings only serious fines.

CONTACT WALTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TO PASS AN ORDINANCE TO HAVE THESE BANNED ! They
take away what has historically made 30A what it is ... Only a matter of time before there is a serious,
fatal accident ...

**tsutcli** · 07-28-2012, 08:44 AM

Tell me, how many ordinances does our county enforce now? So many, many rules, ZERO enforcement!!!

**Jim Tucker** · 07-28-2012, 05:21 PM

Originally Posted by tsutcli

Tell me, how many ordinances does our county enforce now? So many, many rules, ZERO enforcement!!!

Looks like someone is ready for summer to be over. It take s alittle stamina to live here.

What are you REALLY angry about?

**tsutcli** · 07-28-2012, 10:04 PM

After 11 years here I have seen it all. But I have not seen our county enforce much. And no, I am not angry. I am just stating the truth. Maybe the truth is making you angry but it's just the way it is here.

**Zebraspots** · 07-28-2012, 10:20 PM

I find laying on the horn when they are driving 15 mph below the speed limit and laughing when they are tailgating runners and bikers are great stress relievers.
Just because we call out asshole behavior doesn't mean we are angry.

**tistheseason** · 07-28-2012, 11:25 PM

I think enforcement may be the answer as I really don't think anyone would be able to successfully get them banned!

Btw - the ones I saw behaving badly were also from classic rental.

**joho** · 07-29-2012, 01:03 PM

Originally Posted by Gulfair

CONTACT WALTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TO PASS AN ORDINANCE TO HAVE THESE BANNED ! They
take away what has historically made 30A what it is ... Only a matter of time before there is a serious,
fatal accident ...

I have never seen a golf cart pulled over by an officer either to be given a ticket or to be warned.
As long as this ordinance isn't enforced by the law there's nothing that will change.
It's ashame the WCSO doesn't acknowledge how fatal it's going to be when a golf cart filled with people gets hit by a moving automobile. Unfornately Gulfair, I think that's when something will change

**Mello Yolo** · 07-31-2012, 12:27 PM

Ahhh..... I think we are missing a golden opportunity here. Ponder this:

1. Outlaw golf carts on 30-A

2. Require golf carts to use Hwy 98, between 4-5 PM.

3. What carnage! Touristas in golf carts doing 12 MPH in 65 MPH zones; locals in their landscape services 4-wheel drive trucks doing 70 MPH in 45 MPH zones.

4. The outcome would be predictable. Charles Darwin would be proud. Let the Deathmatch begin....

All, of course, in fun.....

**kwalsh0001** · 08-01-2012, 11:46 AM

Mello..... Pretty crass comment, there..... Crass, but funny!

**cabythesea** · 08-01-2012, 06:56 PM

The problem here in SUV nation may be the people complaining about the golf carts (rightfully so) are the same people letting their dogs run unleashed on the beach (and not cleaning up after them), stomping on the dunes. The focus needs to be on the Meth Labs...

**Mello Yolo** · 08-02-2012, 10:43 AM

Caby, sorry, but your logic trail eludes me. From SUVs and golf carts, to canine fecal matter, to crystal meth labs? Wow!

If you're suggesting dogs on meth should not drive SUVs and golf carts on 30A, I guess I'd have to agree with that......

**meowracer** · 08-07-2012, 11:11 AM

One thing I like to do when I am there is ride my bike. It's nice to have the safe bike paths. The bike paths are not safe in Seaside. There are so many people, but at least these are people just not paying attention, only going walking speed. I generally just push my bike through Seaside. However, the problem I've had with these low speed vehicle things is not teens...it's adults. I was nearly hit TWICE by the same guy. I think he thought it was funny, given the fact that he was chuckling. It was one of those extra long ones, filled with people. I gave him a piece of my mind after the second time and headed towards the quiet paths toward Grayton. If I am on a bike an obeying street laws, then I expect a motorized vehicle to do the same.

**NotDeadYet** · 08-07-2012, 12:17 PM

Some people might not be aware that the striped area adjacent to a handicapped parking space is actually a legal part of the space - it is the loading and unloading area. Twice lately I have seen golf carts parked in these areas at the Blue Mountain beach access and at Seaside and several other areas around town.
I really wish WCSO would start writing tickets for this, for driving carts on the bike path, for driving non-street legal carts on 30A, and for numerous other violations. I agree with meowracer - motorized vehicles should obey the laws.

**lenzoe** · 08-07-2012, 02:02 PM

I think it's silly to allow these things on 30A. After all, it's not an enclosed golf-cart community. However, if they continue to be allowed and one of the reasons for that is a desire not to shut down business opportunities, why not make the solution another business opportunity? Let businesses bid for the right to enforce ordinances and collect fines on rule breakers. Between illegally parked LSVs, dogs on the beach, and littering someone should be able to make a living off of encouraging good behavior. Better living through fines.

**NotDeadYet** · 08-07-2012, 02:31 PM

I think it's silly to allow these things on 30A

Well, you have to ask, which things? My understanding is if they are street legal and have a Florida license plate, state law takes precedence and they are allowed on roads with a speed limit of 35 or less. If they are golf carts without license plates, then they are already not allowed on 30A and ought to be ticketed. And they are already not allowed on the bike path, so those ought to be ticketed too.
It sounds to me like what you are suggesting is that we outsource law enforcement.
I dunno about that. I can see a lot of potential conflicts there.
But I agree, fines are in order. Seems as though the fines ought to pay enough to fund one LEO who does nothing but enforce the issues you listed.
If people can't behave, make them pay.

**meowracer** · 08-13-2012, 12:14 AM

My dad works for the City of Houston, working as a volunteer, writing tickets to illegally parked vehicles in handicapped spots. Any car without a tag/license, etc, or parked over the line, or in the marked spots next to the parking place (like the diagonal spots that motorcycles love to park in) gets a ticket. If these *vehicles* are parking illegally, or any vehicle for that matter, maybe SoWal has a program like that to allow citizens to write tickets. He had to go through an orientation, I think, but it was quick and he really enjoys his duty! I would love to have had some vehicle number to report the people who nearly hit me (and I'm fairly certain alcohol was involved.) It's a miracle that nobody has been seriously injured (that I know of) but these carts, or other cars, along 30A.

**Zebraspots** · 08-13-2012, 01:13 PM

I would gladly donate time to write tickets.

Ticket pad, pen, and a digital camera to provide evidence of wrongdoing (in case it is questioned) and we are in business!

**lenzoe** · 08-14-2012, 07:12 AM

Originally Posted by NotDeadYet

My understanding is if they are street legal and have a Florida license plate, state law takes precedence and they are allowed on roads with a speed limit of 35 or less.

The Florida law allowing LSV's also allows localities/municipalities to ban LSVs in the interests of safety on roads under their jurisdiction. That gives Walton County the authority to ban them completely from highway 30A if it wanted.

Originally Posted by NotDeadYet

It sounds to me like what you are suggesting is that we outsource law enforcement.
I dunno about that. I can see a lot of potential conflicts there.
But I agree, fines are in order. Seems as though the fines ought to pay enough to fund one LEO who does nothing but enforce the issues you listed.

I don't care if it's a LEO or a private entity doing the ticketing. I'm not trying to knock law enforcement. I know they write tickets also, but with the volume of minor ordinance offenders increasing I think they could use some help.

I like meowracer's suggestion of volunteer ticketers. That would reduce some of those conflict of interest concerns.

**NotDeadYet** · 08-14-2012, 08:40 AM

The Florida law allowing LSV's also allows localities/municipalities to ban LSVs in the interests of safety on roads under their jurisdiction. That gives Walton County the authority to ban them completely from highway 30A if it wanted.

I did not know that, thanks.

I agree the SO could certainly use some help. I like meowracer's suggestion too.