Experienced participants will know these already, but if you're still new to high-performance driver education and looking forward to getting out on the track in the future, here's a listing of the different flags corner workers may use to communicate during events.
GREEN - You'll find this one at the starting/finish line. It generally indicates that the session is in progress, the track is clear and
passing is allowed.
YELLOW - If the corner worker is holding this flag still with both arms outstretched, it means passing is not allowed, either because
it's the warm-up lap or due to a problem ahead. If the flagger is waving a yellow flag, it's a sign to slow down and pay
attention because there's a problem immediately ahead.
BLUE w/DIAGNOL YELLOW or WHITE STRIPE - This tells you that there are faster cars behind you that you should allow to pass.
VERTICAL YELLOW & RED STRIPES - This flag indicates that something potentially hazardous is on the track ahead (dirt, leaked
fluid, an animal, etc.) and you need to be cautious.
BLACK - If you see a black flag, you need to pit in, either because there's something wrong with your car or there's something about your driving that needs to be addressed. Ignoring a black flag can get you removed from the event.
BLACK FLAG w/ORANGE SPOT - This flag indicates that you have a mechanical problem such as a noticeably loose or missing rt or a fluid leak. When you see this flag, slow down, pit in and find out what's going on.
RED - The red flag tells you to check your mirrors and come to a stop toward the inside of the track, in view of a flagger. It
indicates that something has happened that requires a clear track for emergency responders.
WHITE FLAG - This is used when any slow moving vehicle is on the track, including emergency vehicles.
BLACK & WHITE CHECKS - This marks the end of the session and lets you know to begin your final cool down lap and then pit in.
Passing is not allowed during this final lap.