Sunday, Sept. 22, marked the beginning of a new season, autumn. Yes, we have seasons in Florida, perhaps not as distinct in character as those states to our north, but seasons nonetheless. Autumn in On Top of the World brings cooler evenings, shorter days and longer nights, a spattering of changing colors on some trees and plants, and the return of many snowbirds.
The streets of On Top of the World are already experiencing an increase in travelers. Driving down SW 94th Street each morning around 6 a.m. I pass dozens of walkers, cyclists, and golf carts. In addition to our many residents traveling the streets, our maintenance crews are heading out to the golf courses. Our community is bustling even in the wee hours. As the days get shorter, most of this early travel is in the dark. Most walkers, but unfortunately not all, are wearing reflective apparel or lights. You are placing yourself and others at risk if you are not visible.
There are some important things to remember when traveling the streets and paths within our community:
- All vehicles must yield to pedestrians. This does not take any responsibility away from the pedestrian when it comes to using good sense. You may have the right of way, but if a moving vehicle hits you, you will likely come out on the short end of the deal. Make sure you are visible and be prepared to yield.
- Bicycles, golf carts, and low-speed vehicles (LSVs) must follow the same road rules as motor vehicles. This includes coming to a complete stop at stop signs, using turn indicators, and traveling on the correct side of the road in the correct direction. Go with the flow of traffic.
- Golf carts are not supposed to exceed 20 mph.
- LSVs are not supposed to exceed 25 mph and must be properly registered as a motor vehicle. This speed applies when traveling on the roadway. Speeds on cart paths and multi-modal paths should never exceed 20 mph.
- Golf carts and LSVs should slow when approaching walkers or cyclists. If approaching them from behind, the operator of the cart or LSV should give a couple of “beeps” of the horn to alert them.
On Top of the World Communities has a traffic agreement with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), allowing deputies to enforce the traffic laws on the roadways within the community. They can and do issue traffic citations (fines) for traffic violations. MCSO cannot enforce traffic violations on paths that are outside the boundaries of the roadway unless they involve a criminal act, such as driving under the influence (DUI).
There is no traffic agreement between On Top of the World Communities and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). By statute, FHP cannot enter into such an agreement. FHP will only investigate vehicle crashes. MCSO does not investigate vehicle crashes.
On Top of the World Communities is fortunate to have an agreement with MCSO and enjoys their support. MCSO’s number one complaint coming from residents is speeding. Your district commander, Lt. Robbins, hears these complaints and takes them seriously. He and his deputies are committed to keeping our residents as safe as possible, but they need your support and cooperation as well. Slow down, be alert, be visible, and be respectful of others and the laws.
Be safe.
