Safe Go-Karting
The exact safety precautions for go karting will depend on the type of kart racing you’re doing. A low speed karting track aimed mostly at kids and recreational karting may require minimal safety gear and few precautions. There’s a good chance you’ll need a helmet, but most go kart tracks provide these. Other protective clothing usually isn’t required, although thinner soled shoes are generally preferred to thick ones, so you’ll have more control over your kart.
Serious go karting is another realm entirely. This competitive sport involves racing at much higher speeds than the above types of tracks. Since these karts can go up to sixty miles per hour, and have little in the way of built in safety devices, it’s important to wear the right equipment and take some precautions. You’ll need a helmet that covers your entire head, as well as a protective, fire resistant racing suit, gloves, and the correct shoes. Safety harnesses and seatbelts are also vital if you’re doing this type of go kart racing. Some karts come with roll cages to prevent injuries if they tip, but most do not.
Before you race, you’ll receive a short lecture on correct driving for the greatest amount of safety. This happens even on low speed tracks. However, on more competitive tracks or on tracks that use more powerful karts, there will be more safety guidelines to pay attention to. Light and flag location is important to know, and you’ll need to be familiar with the colors of the flags and what each of them means. Don’t fail to respond to any signals you’re given. If there’s an accident or problem further down the track, you may need to slow or stop. If you break a rule, have a kart mechanical failure, or have been seen to be endangering other drivers, you may be asked to leave the race. Obeying these signals is extremely important.
Tags: Karting, Safety Gear, Seatbelts