In auto racing and motorsports, related flags are typically used to identify the circuit’s state and convey significant drivers’ signals. The beginner, often the great marshal of the race, usually waved the flags on a flag near the finish/start line. Track guards are often posted around the race track at observation posts to inform drivers of local and race conditions. Alternatively, specific racial paths use lights to add the main flag on the start and finish line.

Meaning

The solid black flag is used to get a driver into the box. It usually is synonymous with a punishment levied on the driver to disobey the rules. Still, it is visible in a vehicle suffering from a mechanical breakdown, the leakage of fluids, the loss of the car bodywork, losing hood, pulling bumpers, etc. In certain situations where the radio does not function, the black flag helps call a driver in a pit. However, it is not customary to get black flagged in a race.

Being black flagged is usually waived for the worst kind of offense. If a driver receives it, it must head back into the pits. Typically, a driver is disqualified from the race. Black flags are rarely seen in F1 since no one has badly violated the rules. A new suspension structure was introduced where penalty points applied to the license. If within a year, a driver accumulated 12 points, he will be banned from racing. The black flag must not be confused with the orange banner. It is suitable only where the disabled car of a driver poses a risk to other drivers’ welfare.

Facts

In North American races, a driver is forced to return to the pit lane with at least one drift violation if the black flag is used for punitive reasons. A driver can be black flagged, even though no visible injury or mechanical fault exists, for failure to maintain a safe minimum speed. In nearly any event, the crew has the chance to fix the vehicle and make it satisfactory. If, after repair, the driver still cannot keep minimum speed concerning the leaders, the driver will be obliged to stay the rest of the race.