Explaining How HANS Devices Have Changed Car Racing

Even a minor car accident could have been fatal in the early days of car racing. A prominent race driver Patrick Jacquemart was killed in Mid-Ohio in 1981 after he collided with a dirt bank. Even though his car was unscathed, he suffered from a skull fracture resulting in severe brain damage and death.

This led to two of his friends, Jim Downing and Dr. Bob Hubbard, creating a new safety gear popularly known as a HANS device. Let’s look deeper at this impeccable auto racing safety equipment and how it has changed car racing.

The Origins

The HANS device was invented in the mid-1980s and went on sale in 1990. However, the initial design was unsuited to single-seater racing with narrow and tight cockpits. However, the outlook changed after Mika Hakkinen’s accident in 1995, after which Formula One and FIA instituted research to see how they could protect drivers during major accidents and impacts.

After much research and refinement, the Head and Neck Support (HANS Device) system was finally introduced to Formula One in 2003. It consisted of a carbon fiber shoulder collar secured through the driver’s safety belts.

When speaking about NASCAR, it wasn’t until the death of Dale Earnhardt Sr. in 2001 that the organization to take HANS device seriously. After making HANS devices mandatory, the organization didn’t experience any driver fatality in the next ten years after Earnhardt’s death.

Innovation and Development

The HANS device was revolutionary in terms of driver safety. Since its inception, it has continued to evolve and improve. Today’s devices are lighter, more comfortable, and offer more protection than ever. Modern HANS devices are also quite flexible and allow drivers to experience a greater range of motion and easier exit from the car in the event of an accident.

The device has also drastically transformed to fit the drivers better and provide greater support. The continued development and research in auto racing safety equipment will further enhance the HANS device utility.

Where to Buy Quality HANS Devices 

If you like to go racing, investing in world-class safety equipment, such as a HANS device, is important, which keeps you safe and secure on the track. However, finding premium products at unbeatable prices can be quite difficult.

If you’re looking for one, you can’t go wrong with Fast Racer. We are a leading motorsport equipment supplier that stocks numerous impeccable racing products. You can find certified HANS devices that provide ultimate protection on the racetrack.

Besides HANS devices, we also provide various other products, including racing helmets, suits, gloves, shoes, etc. We also have a range of go-kart helmets and other karting products for sale. Check our website today and order your favorite items for swift, seamless, and free delivery.