Does changing the configuration of a motor racing circuit make it safer?. Issue 3 (23rd February 2005)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Leonard, L; Lim, A; Chesser, T J S; Norton, S A; Nolan, J P
• Is Part Of: British journal of sports medicine. Volume 39:Issue 3(2005)
• Page Start: 159
• Page End: 161
• Publication Date: 2005-02-23
• Subjects: motor racing -- design safety -- motor vehicle trauma; Sports medicine -- Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1136/bjsm.2004.011650
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-3674

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives: To assess the pattern of injuries presenting to a racing circuit medical centre in two three-year periods before and after two chicanes were built into the track. Methods: Medical centre records were used to identify all patients assessed during the two time periods. Those referred to hospital were categorised by injury severity into three groups. Results: The proportions of those attending the medical centre that were referred and admitted to hospital were the same in both periods (12–13% and 3% respectively). During the two study periods, the risk of a severe injury for a car driver decreased from 0.1% to 0.03% (p<0.05). For a motorcyclist, similar values were 0% and 0.2% (not significant). Conclusions: Chicanes have improved the safety of the racing circuit for car drivers, reducing the risk of injury.