ANSWERS: 1
  • Auto racing has become on of the largest spectator sports in the United States in recent years. The Indianapolis 500 is the most watched sporting event in the auto racing world. One of the reasons, unfortunately, for the curiosity and attention the sport gets is the potential for high-speed crashes. The officials of the Indy 500 must be prepared for the inevitable.

    Prevention/Solution

    As a result of the frequent accidents and the tragic deaths of many drivers, Indy 500 officials have installed a Safer Barrier. They placed pieces of foam between the inner and outer walls, creating a buffer to spread out the impact and to reduce the chance of serious injury or death.

    Experts

    Firefighters and medical personnel, along with other safety vehicles, are stationed around the track's perimeter, to respond immediately to any accident. These professionals help the drivers out of their car and conduct any immediate evaluation and first aid on the inner infield. Any seriously injured driver is taken by ambulance or helicopter to a local hospital for treatment.

    Considerations

    Cleanup crew check the track for damage and remove the vehicles and other debris. The Indy Racing League inspects the damaged vehicles to evaluate how accidents can be prevented in the future. They research new safety features that need to be considered.

    Caution Flag

    The caution flag immediately gives the other drivers the signal to reduce their speed and to avoid more accidents. Workers remove the remaining debris, and the field of cars follows behind the pace car at a reduced speed.

    Pit Stops

    Many drivers make pit stops during this time to evaluate their cars running condition and to refuel if necessary. Once the damage and debris is cleared, the pace car leaves the track and the race is back in action.

    Source:

    WIVB: Helio Castroneves Wins Indy 500

    John's Indy 500: Forum

    Resource:

    Indianapolis Motor Speedway

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