I have followed the safety-related threads here with interest. When I had my race car, I spent a significant portion of my build budget on safety items (although in those days "Hans" was known only as the pilot of the Millennium Falcon).
For better or worse, I no longer own a race car, but I still have that need for speed. Now I do what more and more enthusiasts seem to do -- head to the track for track days. I love it, but sometimes wonder about the safety aspect. I feel a little naked without that cage, harness, racing seat, firesuit, and extinguisher system.
On the positive side, my modern street car has many features that my old car did not: collapsible steering column, crumple zones, door beams, multiple air bags, ABS and stability control, etc. Plus the modern tracks are so much safer than they used to be. Also, the HPDE environment does seem less contact-prone than a real racing situation.
What does this community have to say about it? Am I being reckless? You guys seem very thoughtful and knowledgeable. I value your opinions.
For better or worse, I no longer own a race car, but I still have that need for speed. Now I do what more and more enthusiasts seem to do -- head to the track for track days. I love it, but sometimes wonder about the safety aspect. I feel a little naked without that cage, harness, racing seat, firesuit, and extinguisher system.
On the positive side, my modern street car has many features that my old car did not: collapsible steering column, crumple zones, door beams, multiple air bags, ABS and stability control, etc. Plus the modern tracks are so much safer than they used to be. Also, the HPDE environment does seem less contact-prone than a real racing situation.
What does this community have to say about it? Am I being reckless? You guys seem very thoughtful and knowledgeable. I value your opinions.
