Motorsport is dangerous. This warning is presented on every press credential we have received when spectating at various events. The same is written on tickets.
Most people never look twice at the warning. Only drivers and co-drivers are acutely aware of the risks involved in motorsport, but some spectators are also informed of the dangers brought by this sport. However, people still watch motorsport events, and life goes on. At least most of the time and for most of the people involved.
Once in awhile, an accident occurs. Usually, one car hits another, or just leaves the track and hits a static object. In more unfortunate events, a vehicle leaves the road and collides with spectators, referees, or other bystanders. There is a risk of fatalities every time cars drive fast in a competition. The same risk is present in everyday driving, and it looms over our daily lives.
The worst reactions to crashes related to motorsport are those of people who say “they had it coming,” or “who made them drive so fast,” and many others. These people do not realize that risks exist in every aspect of human life, and in numerous sports. Imagine watching a baseball game and getting hit by the ball.
There is a small chance it might happen, and it is even less likely to happen without you attempting to duck, but the possibility exists. While it did not occur to us, we think it might be significantly painful to experience.
Speaking of objects flying into crowds at sporting events, what about getting hit by a driveshaft? Yes, something like this actually happened. According to KSL News, it took place in a demolition derby competitionin Heber City, Utah. After a collision between two trucks, one of them lost a driveshaft, which flew through the air and into the crowd.
Three people were hospitalized because of the injuries they sustained. Fortunately, they lived to tell the tale of the flying driveshaft, an event that has not occurred before according to die-hard fans of the sport. You can see a few videos below, but viewer discretion is advised.
As we wrote above, motorsport is dangerous, but we love watching it, so stay safe out there when spectating or participating in a race or demonstration.
Sebastian's love for cars began at a young age. Little did he know that a career would emerge from this passion (and that it would not, sadly, involve being a professional racecar driver). In over fourteen years, he got behind the wheel of several hundred vehicles and in the offices of the most important car publications in his homeland. Full profile
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