If you have ever been to a motorcycle road race or watched one on TV, you have more than likely noticed corner marshals. They are the men and women dressed in white, stationed around the track, closely watching the racers as they race and practice the course. When a racer crashes, they spring into action. The first move will be by the flagger, displaying a warning flag to inform the other racers of the situation on the track ahead. There are several different flags, each with a separate and distinct meaning. While the flagger warns the racers, the rest of the crew is preparing to assist the downed rider(s). The corner captain communicates by radio with the race officials and medical personnel regarding the situation and its severity. The assist crew goes to work, first attending to the downed rider and then clearing the track of the related debris. When the track is cleared, the crew goes back to their stations to watch the action until they are needed again.

Corner marshals also assist the race officials with rules enforcement. Since they are the closest to the track and have the best view of the racers and their motorcycles in action, they can see more than anyone else. They watch for illegal passes and rough or dangerous riding, as well as spotting possible hazards, such as leaking oil or loose equipment. They also help photographers get to the best possible places around the track while still being safe. Corner marshals also can be called upon for crowd control, keeping spectators out of hot pit lanes or other areas where the race fans would be endangered. During the slow times between races and practices they keep the track clean by sweeping and inspect the track for debris from the motorcycles.

Corner marshals should be trained in track-side medical assistance. Corner marshal responsibilities would include, the common hand signs used to communicate in the noisy track side environment, and how and when to move an injured rider. It also covers helmet removal in accordance with the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma, as well as very basic interventions that can help an injured rider until the paramedics arrive.