Photo Credit: Ralph Lauer/ Associated Press
The racing community is still stunned after the death of racer Kevin Ward Jr. Ward was struck by fellow racer Tony Stewart’s car after exiting his own vehicle to confront Stewart. The incident is currently being investigated and charges have not been filed against Stewart. However, NASCAR is not waiting and is already trying to prevent another tragic loss.
NASCAR has implemented a new rule preventing drivers from exiting their vehicles unless there are extenuating circumstances such as a fire. The rule also states that no crew member is allowed to enter the track or approach another moving car.
NASCAR vice president Robin Pemberton explains, “Throughout the history of our sport, NASCAR has reviewed and analyzed situations and occurrences that take place not just in NASCAR racing but also throughout all motorsports and other sports. When we believe we can do something to make our sport safer and better for the competitors and others involved in the competition environment, we react quickly. Safety always has been priority No. 1 at NASCAR.”
The man that caused the rule change, Tony Stewart, announced that he will not compete this Sunday at the Michigan International Speedway. This is the second Sprint Cup since the incident that Stewart has pulled out of. Jeff Burton will drive his signature number 14 car in his place. Stewart has announced that he is unsure if he will race again this season.
[…] decided to put in a new rule into place that prohibited drivers from exiting their vehicles unless there are extenuating […]