Letter: Enforcing Safety

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Letter to the Editor

Needless to say, having just read the article “Sheriffs Put Young Golf Cart Drivers On Notice” from Aug. 14, I was surprised to come out of the Point Dume Village shopping center on Aug. 29 at around 5:20 p.m. to find my car side-swiped by “kids in a golf cart.” The witness, a deliveryman who didn’t have time to question the young offenders, reported the accident to me as I approached, carrying my groceries. Putting them on notice is simply not enforcing the laws.

I parked legally on the street at Heathercliff and Dume Drive since the parking lot was filled to capacity. The entire driver’s side of my car must be repaired and repainted (the front panel, the drivers door, the rear panel and the hubcap) and since it was basically a hit and run, I will be responsible for the comprehensive deductible on my automobile insurance policy.

Do parents not understand that while a vandalized car is an expensive and inconvenient assault, an injured dog or child would be a far more grave offense? The ticking time bomb is their nonchalance in allowing their children to drive without proper licensing and the maturity that goes along with it. 

Recently, adolescents getting out of a pick-up truck slammed their truck door into my compact car side panel. When I looked at them, saw the dent and chip, and said “Seriously?” their reply was “Oh, sorry, dude.” Had I not been two weeks post hip replacement surgery with other challenges taking priority, their parents would have become involved.

Parents, please, for the sake of your Malibu neighbors (friends, animals and children), do not wait until penalties are imposed, vehicles are towed and lives are endangered. Disallow your children to joy-ride golf carts and low-speed vehicles.  Those thus far unscathed will appreciate your efforts and responsibility for their irresponsible behavior.

Jeffrey Ort