Wednesday, September 25, 2002
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Wednesday, September 25, 2002 |
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PTC Council gives teens expanded cart rights By JOHN MUNFORD
Newly minted to drive alone on Peachtree City's golf cart paths, 15-year-olds with state learner's permits can now take their siblings for a spin, too. The City Council has approved a new ordinance that allows "up to three immediate family members" to ride with the permitted 15-year-olds, who until now could only drive with one passenger who is at least 15 years old also. The change was opposed by Mayor Steve Brown, who said younger siblings could cause more of a distraction than necessary. But other council members argued parents should have the right to decide if their 15-year-old is responsible enough to take care of the younger children. "They (parents) are the first governing body of that," said councilman Murray Weed. Weed asked parents to use caution when making those decisions, however. "This will make it easier for families to transport family members," said councilman Dan Tennant. The measure passed 3-1 with Brown against and councilwoman Annie McMenamin absent. The city Tuesday issued a reminder that parents must supervise their teen cart drivers, as follows: "The City Council adopted several changes to the golf cart Ordinance on Sept. 5 and Sept. 19. These changes affect the legal operation of golf carts on both streets and paths within the city limits. Residents are reminded that: "No one who has had their drivers license suspended or revoked may operate a golf cart on streets or paths. "No one may be standing on the cart when the cart is in operation. "No one may sit in the driver's lap while the cart is in operation. "Twelve- to 14-year-olds may drive a golf cart on the [cart paths] with a parent, grandparent or guardian in the front seat (the law used to require a licensed parent or guardian). "Fifteen-year olds may drive a golf cart with a parent, grandparent or guardian in the front seat, or with a licensed person 18 or older in the front seat. "Fifteen-year olds with a valid learner's permit may also drive alone, accompanied by a maximum of one other person at least 15 years of age, or accompanied by no more than three immediate family members. "Parents are asked to educate their 15-year-olds on the rules of the road. All traffic signage and requirements apply to golf carts on streets."
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