Sharing the road in The Villages: safety tips for all drivers

The Public Safety Department’s mission is to promote safety by ensuring that everyone who lives in and visits The Villages enjoys a safe and harmonious community experience. With that in mind, we would like to remind all drivers of important safety guidelines and rules when navigating our shared roadways.

Shared Roads: Respecting Pedestrians and Golf Carts The Villages is unique in that our roads are shared by traditional vehicles, golf carts, pedestrians, and cyclists. It is crucial to remain vigilant at all times and exercise patience and courtesy. Please remember that our community has limited sidewalks, which means pedestrians often share the roadways and crosswalks.

When approaching pedestrians in a crosswalk, reduce your speed and yield the right of way. This simple gesture of respect ensures the safety and comfort of everyone. Avoid honking or rushing through crosswalks; instead, allow adequate time for pedestrians to cross safely.

Traffic Rules to Follow To maintain safety and order, The Villages Public Safety Department enforces specific traffic rules that all drivers must follow:

1. Full Stops Are Mandatory at Stop Signs Rule 1.02.I: “The driver of any vehicle (including golf carts/LSVs and bicycles) approaching a stop sign must come to a full and complete stop and then proceed safely.”

Rolling stops endanger lives and lead to accidents. Always stop completely, check your surroundings, and proceed only when it is safe to do so.

2. Adhere to Speed Limits Rule 1.02.B: “The maximum speed limit on streets within The Villages for all vehicles, including golf carts and LSVs, is 25 miles per hour, except where posted otherwise or when conditions require a lesser speed. The maximum speed limit for golf carts and LSVs on cart paths is 15 miles per hour.”

Driving at a safe and appropriate speed is critical, especially in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic or sharp turns. Slowing down allows you to react more effectively to unexpected situations.

Be Courteous and Aware The spirit of The Villages is one of community and camaraderie. Practicing safe driving and being mindful of those around you reflects our shared commitment to this ideal. Whether you’re operating a car, golf cart, or bicycle, please prioritize safety and consideration for others.

By working together and respecting these rules, we can ensure that The Villages remains a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Thank you for your cooperation and dedication to safety.