Low-speed vehicles gaining popularly in shore towns
By Krystle J Bailey
Jersey Shore locals and vacationers alike have been switching to LSVs (low-speed vehicles) as a means of easy, eco-friendly, local transportation. The golf-cart style vehicles are designed to operate at 25 miles per hour or less and offer drivers a scenic, open-air travel experience along the coast. This increasingly popular transportation method has raised safety concerns in many local towns, including Somers Point, where LSVs are currently banned. Community members share mixed thoughts on the topic, many claiming that they enjoy the ability to leisurely meander their favorite shore town while others plead for the banning of LSVs altogether.
According to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, “An LSV is a four-wheeled vehicle with an attainable speed of more than 20 miles per hour, but no more than 25 miles per hour on a paved surface. It cannot be powered by gas or diesel fuel and must comply with federal safety standards.”
The law indicates that LSVs are only permitted on public roads with a posted speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less. Additionally, low-speed vehicles must comply with a list of safety requirements, including child restraint standards, proper lighting, functioning seat belts, mirrors, and turn signals.
While LSVs are legal in New Jersey, the law allows municipalities to impose a ban on all roadways within their jurisdiction.
One of the main draws to low-speed vehicles is that they are eco-friendly and produce a smaller carbon footprint than traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. In coastal areas, such as South Jersey, environmental conservation is a top priority for many. Additionally, LSVs provide a convenient and fun way for operators to immerse themselves in the coastal experience. Many LSV rental companies offer pick-up and drop-off services, giving vacationers a unique way to save on miles while exploring their beach town of choice.
Alternatively, LSVs are viewed by many as extremely unsafe. Though few LSV deaths have been reported, the foresight from many local residents is that an abundance of LSVs on the road would result in a chaotic and dangerous driving experience during the summer. Lack of sidewalks, intoxicated drivers, and minimal safety protection on LSVs are just a few of the pleas from concerned citizens.
In towns such as Ocean City and Wildwood, LSVs are legal and offered by several local rental companies. It’s worth noting that laws regarding LSVs are subject to change on a state-wide and municipal level at any time. Residents and visitors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local laws, roads, and safety concerns before hitting the town in a low-speed vehicle.
Up-to-date state information and regulations regarding LSVs can be found on the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission website under their section dedicated to low-speed vehicles.
Krystle J Bailey is a multimedia journalist, author and poet. Connect with Krystle on Instagram @thedailybailey5
