Since 1949, NASCAR has been in existence and has undergone some dramatic changes. Safety for drivers is one of the most important areas where the sport continues to develop. NASCAR does not use airbags, as other motorsports racing categories do.
In modern times, racing cars have developed massively in terms of power, speed, etc., and because of this NASCAR Drivers require a clear vision while racing. The airbags can create issues for drivers.
Innovation has been crucial in tackling this problem. The modern NASCAR cars can withstand bumps and hits during racing. Second, safety measures for drivers have undergone massive changes which have rendered airbags obsolete in the sport.
Safety features such as advanced seats, HANS devices and roof flaps are available to NASCAR drivers. Carbon fiber is used to make race seats, which can absorb impact during crashes. They are designed to protect the driver’s rib cage, shoulder and neck. HANS devices are designed to prevent backward movement, which can lead to whiplash injuries.
Roof flaps are used to prevent NASCAR cars from flipping or flying off the track . Aerodynamics can be a lifesaver when a race car spinning out of control and airlift cause it to fly. The flaps disrupt airflow in order to minimize lift and maximize downforce.
Last but not least, the window nest is designed to keep the driver’s head and arms inside the vehicle during crashes. This is all down to technology. If innovation had not been introduced into NASCAR, the sport may not have become a worldwide phenomenon.
What other safety measures are there in NASCAR?
All the features mentioned above are important in ensuring safety for NASCAR drivers. However, there are many other measures that can help achieve the same goal. The first is the race suit. They have been in use since the very beginning of the sport. However, the modern race suit is much safer than the older suits.
Second, NASCAR has spotters, a concept not found in other racing categories. They relay vital information to drivers via radio in order to ensure their safety. The NASCAR tracks also have safety barriers which are checked before each race.
It is impossible to hold high-speed NASCAR racing without safety barriers. NASCAR has never been safer because the safety barriers absorb most of the impact from crashes.
