While airbags have become standard safety features in several passenger vehicles, they are not usually found in racecars. Given the fact that airbags are not 100 percent safe, their non-use doesn’t seem a big deal since racecar drivers are experts at what they do. Furthermore, airbags themselves have caused injuries. Read more in this article about how airbags that malfunctioned led to car crashes all over the U.S.
There are several reasons why racecars do not need airbags.
First, racecars are designed to be lightweight and aerodynamic, which means that they can’t afford to add the extra weight of airbags. Second, racecar drivers are typically well-trained and experienced, so they are less likely to get into accidents in the first place. Third, over the years modifications to race cars made them more durable and safer which made use of airbags redundant. Fourth, airbags are deployed at the slightest trigger of their crash sensors. Installing an airbag in a race car that experiences a lot of hits and bumps during the race will only trigger a premature deployment which causes the driver to get distracted. A premature deployment will be detrimental to a driver’s performance and at worst result in more injuries and accidents.
Racecars are not like your typical automobile. That is why racecars do not run on the streets. While airbags may be effective in preventing accidents on the highway, it is useless in stock cars that perform in racing events such as NASCAR and Formula 1.
How do race car drivers stay safe without using airbags? Read on and learn how.
Here are the alternative safety features used by racecar drivers:
Professional racecar drivers are trained not only to take estimated risks in this sport. To drive at high speeds with the potential of crashing requires a lot of training and skills in using the right equipment.
