Keeping Everyone Safe on Track Day: 5 Top Tips
Most cars never go above a certain speed, thanks to speed limits on roads. These speed limits are there for a reason – they ensure optimal safety for all drivers and passengers. However, they can leave drivers itching to know how fast their car can really go. Those who want to find out can join the next local track day.
Track days are opportunities for people to see what their vehicle is really capable of, allowing their car to go faster than it ever has before. At the event, plenty of like-minded car-loving individuals are ready to rev up and speed around the circuit. It’s an exciting, exhilarating day that should be fun for everyone!
Of course, there is one thing to always keep in mind when organizing a track day: safety. While track days have escaped the traditional laws of the road, safety still matters, especially when speed limits get pushed so recklessly. To ensure the safety of all, use these five top tips when organizing your next adrenaline-packed track day event.
Tip #1: Define Clear Rules
While track days don’t have to follow the same rules as typical roads, defining rules still matters. It’s important to make these rules crystal-clear to all attendees. To do that, consider making them public before the start of the event. Of course, you should also go over all the rules in the safety briefing on the morning of the track day, with every person in attendance.
Some of the rules you might cover include:
- Keeping phones away
- Only passing when confident
- No tailgating
- Wearing the correct gear
You could also go over some other things, like what may happen in the case of a crash. While you can’t cover things like insurance claims, you can let everyone know the step-by-step plan in case of such an accident.
Tip #2: Control the Crowd
Track days are popular. That’s great, as it means car lovers and speed-seekers can come together to enjoy something as a group. However, that also means there’s an issue of crowd control. The last thing you want is for the entrance, exit, and stands around the track to become overwhelmed with people. To avoid this, control the crowd with set-up barricades. These barricades can control traffic flow, ensuring everyone follows the correct route to each area. Plus, you can use them to section off risky areas.
Tip #3: Provide Clear Signage
When setting up the track, be sure to provide clear signage all around the area. For example, you might have a sign showing people the track’s starting point. You should also ensure the track itself has clear signs; for instance, if there’s a hard turn coming up, make that clear. With clear signage all around the track, people will have an easy time on the day.
Tip #4: Test the Track
Be sure to test the track before inviting people to race around it. While the track will more than be fine for the task – especially as it will be used for car races – you (or someone else taking part in the event) should do a quick test run. Not only will this ensure the track is safe for driving, but it will give you an idea of the ins and outs of the track, allowing you to provide a more informed safety briefing.
Tip #5: Be Thorough with Checks
Track days are for virtually anyone. However, it’s still crucial to check maintenance records and driving licenses thoroughly. After all, you want to know that everyone on the track is knowledgeable and confident behind the wheel!
