The new rules for pit vehicles being operated during NHRA events could have some in a bind...

If you've been to a recent NHRA event, then you'll know exactly how it feels to be pushed around by the drivers of golf carts in and around the pit areas. With the rapid growth of this sport in past years, the NHRA has felt it necessary to implement some new rules about motorized pit vehicles on track premises. To keep patrons and crew members safe during races, the NHRA came up with nine rules when operating a pit vehilce.

The NHRA states that these rules are effective immediately!

NHRA AUXILIARY PIT VEHICLE RULES

1. NHRA reserves the right to reject any motorized pit vehicle depending upon its design, condition, appearance, or construction.

2. Non-motorized vehicles such as skateboards, roller skates, scooters, go-peds, etc. may not be ridden in the pit area.

3. Auxiliary pit vehicles may be used for necessary transportation only. Joyriding, cruising, or recreational riding is prohibited. Vehicles are only allowed on the facility grounds when the owner is actually competing in the event. Spectators, guests, and non-participants are not allowed to bring pit vehicles onto the property.

4. All vehicles, whenever possible, are to use perimeter roadways and are to avoid high traffic areas, such as the Pro pits and Manufacturers Midway.

5. The maximum speed limit is 15 mph.

6. ALL operators must be at least 16 years of age, have a valid state driver's license, and must be covered by adequate general liability insurance. All operators shall provide proof of such insurance, a driver's license, and any other applicable credentials upon the request of an NHRA or event official.

7. ALL registered auxiliary pit vehicles MUST display the pit vehicle sticker issued at racer registration. You are permitted one (1) sticker per race car entry. Additional stickers will not be issued.

8. Pit vehicles operated after dusk/sunset must have a working headlight. Taillights may also be required on an individual basis depending upon vehicle design.

9. ONLY2008 Pit Auxiliary Stickers are to be affixed to your pit auxiliary vehicle. Any stickers from previous seasons must be removed.