I write this not to lecture but out of genuine concern, and with the hope that this Yom Tov remains the beautiful, joyful experience it should be for everyone.

It is a true neis that nothing serious has happened yet in Orlando. But the situation on the roads in and around the resorts has become dangerous enough that it cannot go unaddressed.

The first issue is speed. People are driving through these resort roads as though they are on a highway, seemingly unaware — or unconcerned — that families with young children are walking, playing, and moving through these same areas at all hours. This needs to stop.

The second issue is minors behind the wheel of golf carts. This is not a matter of trust or maturity, it is a matter of neuroscience. The part of the brain responsible for split-second decision-making is not fully developed until the mid-twenties. When a golf cart hits a turn too fast, clips a curb, or needs to stop suddenly, the margin for error is razor-thin. Golf cart tip-overs are well-documented and can cause serious injury or worse. A learner’s permit or even a license does not change this calculus.

Driving is a privilege, not a right, and on a crowded resort during Yom Tov, it is a privilege that comes with real responsibility.

To every parent in Orlando: please do not allow minors to operate golf carts. And to every driver: please slow down.
Yom Tov is a time of simcha. Let’s make sure everyone goes home safely to enjoy it.

Wishing a safe Chag Kosher V’Sameach!

Rabbi Yehoshua Sova

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