| From what I understand, the launch control is automatically switched off once the rider changes gear* so it would indeed be off by the time they reach the first corner.
As for injuries, they can replace a rider at any time (through injury or otherwise) and riders can also maintain any existing points they may already have. Although it is uncommon for riders to switch teams mid season, it does happen.
* it gets turned by the rider on via a control button, and switches off automatically once second gear is selected |