This is not a new problem but the "it is only a matter of time before a child is killed" crops up from time to time but so far (fortunately?) it has not happened. Over the last 8 years we have seen some very nasty looking accidents - karts rolling, flipping rear over nose etc and drivers being taken to A&E. There have been some broken bones bot not aware of anything more serious. I believe there have been one or two deaths over the years in senior karting but others may know differently. As for penalties, exclusions etc then yes we have seen plenty of them - at some meetings they could fill a notice board. The officials can not see everything unfortunately! The officials also have to be certain who committed the offence before they issue a penalty. One problem with MSA racing is that the rules allow for appeals and there are a number of parents who are willing to put down money to follow the appeal process right through to the national court. In non-MSA meetings they can use black flags etc and can say that the CoC decision is final. Fisticuffs in the paddock - again nothing new. Some drivers were given points on their licence for their parent's actions but I believe that someone went to court and it was held that a child could not be penalised for the action of a parent. Thgios may be the reason for the parent licence. Regarding officials spending time telling you not to run your engine in the paddock - many tracks have problems with noise complaints from local houses and have to act as rivers/mechanics/parents ignore the rule and requests by track staff. A lot6 more drivers would be penalised if you had an official allocated to watch just one kart in the race but then people would complain about the extra cost (and you would probably not find enough officials). If you allow camera evidence at club meetings then would you make their use compulsory? How do you deal with a driver who comes in with a camera that has not recorded? I wonder just how effective they are at helping to improve driving standards as S1 has had to go to standing starts to try and re3duce first corner incidents!
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