Monticello, New York - Auto rallies are one of the most exciting forms of motorsport, because they take place on the road rather than on a track. It is possible to see the action and meet the people, if you keep some rules in mind.

Spectating on Special Stages:

• The safest places to watch special stages (high-speed sections), with the best views, are at spectator points. For a map, go to the event web site, www.RallyNewYork.com.
• Listen to the spectator safety marshals. They will help you to find a safe place to watch.
• Think of a special stage as a race track. Stay off special stage roads after they have been "closed" (that is, sealed off to non-rally traffic). Many rally cars are well muffled, and you may not hear them approaching.
• Never stand too close. Give the driver some space to get the car back under control, should something go wrong.
• Never stand on the "outside" of a turn. For example, if the road goes right (from the driver's perspective), avoid standing on the left side. That's where a car is most likely to wind up if it loses traction.
• Don't stand near the road on either side of the landing after a jump.
• Keep children and pets under control.
• Don't build fires.
• Pick up your trash.
• When parking on an access road to a spectator point, don't block that road, intersecting roads, or driveways. These may be needed by emergency vehicles.

• When teams are busy, please give them time to do their work. In particular, stand back when they are refueling cars or changing tires.
• When teams are not busy, please feel free to say hello. Most competitors and service crews are happy to talk about their sport.

• Dress comfortably, this isn't a place to show off your style.
• Be prepared for every kind of weather. If the weather forecaster says that there will be a 20% chance of rain (or even snow), bring that foul-weather gear. If you will be out during the evening, don't forget your warm jacket.
• If it's going to be a mild day, bring sun screen and insect repellent.
• Bring food and beverages. There may not be any refreshment stands.
• There are long quiet periods at rallies, so bring reading material or your radio (with earphones, in case your tastes differ from those of the folks around you).
• If there is any chance that you will be out past sunset, bring a flashlight. Many rally roads do not have street lights.

• Many of the best still photos are taken in the corners, especially if some of a driver hangs out the tail of the car.
• To keep the car from blurring, try taking pictures with the car approaching you, or follow it with the lens of the camera.
• If you're shooting after dark with a flash, don't fire it into the eyes of rally competitors.
• If you're using a film or video camera, look for a spot where you can follow cars for a few seconds.