Safety is always paramount at SMKA, and this information is dedicated to helping those new to the track or new to karting with safety gear and track etiquette.
Driving Etiquette
Your safety-minded decision-making at SMKA is essential to the club offering events and open track access included with our membership, it is essential that you know where other karters are on the track when you enter and as you approach speed. Give way to faster karts in open track sessions, and be sure to provide Kid and Cadet Karts their dedicated track sessions.
As you enter and exit the track raise your left hand to signal you are entering the circuit.
You MUST signal with your Left hand before you exit the track. It would also be good practice to ensure there is a gap between you and the kart behind you when you exit the track as the exit is beyond a braking zone and a driver close behind you may not anticipate you slowing down earlier than you would otherwise carry into that zone.
Required Safety Equipment
Karting is similar to many other forms of motorsport in which a Helmet, Gloves, full protective clothing, and proper shoes are required.
Helmets
Full Face Safety-rated helmets are a must while Karting, open face helmets are not adequate. If you plan on racing be certain your helmet meets current safety ratings required by the sanctioning body of the race series. SMKA requires a motorsports helmet. Helmet certifications for 2024 are defined here.
Driver Apparel
A full length karting specific suit is ideal, however not required. At a minimum, drivers must have full length jeans and a jacket made of leather, vinyl, abrasion resistant nylon or equivalent. Cotton jackets are not acceptable.
Gloves
Most motorsport gloves are fine for karting though there are many karting-focused gloves available.
Shoes
Dedicated racing shoes are preferred by most, but any closed toe shoe is acceptable.
Neck Collar
Collar-type, unaltered neck brace designed for motorsports use is mandatory.
Chest Protector (ages 12 and under)
A karting specific chest protector is required for all children 12 and under.
Flags
It is the racers responsibility to know and follow the flags during the race.
Green Flag- The racetrack is clear for racing / start of race
Checkered Flag- The race is finished. Slow to a moderate pace for exiting the track. Proceed slowly to the scales / post tech area.
White flag- Indicates one lap left in the race
Yellow Flag- Caution, there is something in the track ahead and you. You should proceed with caution. If the flag is waving, there is a problem in that section of the track. No passing will be allowed in that section when a waving yellow flag is displayed.
Black Flag- Racing is not a contact sport, although it is understood some inadvertent contact will occur, intentional and avoidable bumping, nerfing, pushing, etc., will be grounds for disqualification. You may be warned only once with a rolled black flag; waving black flag means you have been disqualified, exit the track at the next opportunity.
Red Flag- The race has been temporarily halted. Slow to a safe stop and away direction of the corner workers and flagman.
Meatball Flag (Black with a red ball)- Will be thrown for technical or mechanical problems, requiring the driver to stop for consultation.
Blue flag with orange stripe– Indicates a lapping driver is approaching behind you. Allow them to pass.