Driving School FAQ
Do I need special equipment, like a roll cage or 4-point harness? PDF Print E-mail

The vehicle manufacturer's DOT-approved lap and shoulder belts (commonly referred to as a 3-point restraint system) are required for both the driver and passenger (instructor).  Open-top vehicles must have rollover protection. This level of protection is standard in modern vehicles.  No additional equipment is required.

Since this is NOT a racing school, the use of 4-point or 5-point supplemental restraint systems is not recommended.  Supplemental restraint systems will be permitted only if the vehicle is also equipped with an SCCA-compliant full roll cage. Supplemental restraint systems will be permitted only if the instructor is offered equal supplemental restraints.  Supplemental restraint systems will be permitted only if both student and instructor are using Snell Competitive Automotive Sport (SA) rated helmets. [Note that this exceeds the school standard of motorcycle (M) rated helmets and this level of investment is not expected of any instructor.] Pursuant to all of the above conditions being met, any use of supplemental restraint systems will be at the sole discretion of the instructor.

 
Why must I sign a waiver? PDF Print E-mail

Having participants and observers sign a standard waiver is a condition placed upon BMWCC and upon the venue by our respective insurers.

 
Am I likely to contact another vehicle? PDF Print E-mail

BMWCC takes reasonable precautions to ensure events are non-contact.  This means allowing passing only in designated safe-pass zones, and at the discretion of the vehicle being overtaken.  In addition, participants are expected to maintain a safe following distance, just as they would on the street.  Course marshals are in place at most corners to observe conditions and behaviour. Participants failing to abide by safety rules will be expelled.

 
What happens if I go off the track? PDF Print E-mail

For the most part, there are large, flat, grassy run-off areas surrounding the paved portion of the track. Assuming there is no damage to your vehicle when you exit the pavement, you will be black-flagged by course marshals and expected to return to the pit area immediately.  A debrief will then occur with your instructor, your run group leader, and the Chief Instructor to determine the cause of the incident.  Students are generally permitted one four-wheel-off incident.  However, students found to be driving in an unsafe or unacceptable manner will be expelled.

 
Who is responsible if I damage my car? PDF Print E-mail

If your car is in good mechanical condition, you should not expect to experience any mechanical problems. However, this is a high-performance moving-vehicle event, and as such carries some degree of risk.

With respect to insurance coverage in the event of a collision, as of 2006 most insurance policies have a blanket exclusion for track events.  The intent of this school is to teach technique and experiences that are transferable to the real world — this is not a race school.  As such, the organizers ensure certain conditions are in place to minimize risk and to avoid consciously negating insurance coverage for participants, such as: allowing only controlled passing, prohibiting timing equipment, and prohibiting  wheel-to-wheel competition.

Proper insurance coverage for your vehicle is entirely your responsibility.  Neither the School nor its instructors carry insurance on your vehicle ... the only potential coverage is under your existing policy.  If in doubt, verify with your insurer beforehand that you have the appropriate level of coverage in effect.  Be warned that some insurers will cancel your policy if you tell them that you participate in any kind of event that takes place at any motorsports facility, whether a driving school or not.

 
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