Many individuals work in the racing world. NASCAR, Formula One, IndyCar Series (once called CART), A1 Grand Prix, GP2, and various other racing series have achieved worldwide notoriety over the last 20 years. Hundreds of thousands attend the live race, while even more cheer on their favorite driver on television. The high speeds and intricate turns keep fans eyes glued to the track as the drivers cleverly maneuver their vehicle around the track. Unfortunately, accidents in this sport happen in almost every single race. At the average speed of 185, and many drivers surpass that, a driver could face multiple life threatening injuries in the event of an accident.
Unfortunately, drivers that choose to race on practically any given racetrack are said to be “assuming the risk”. This means that the driver realizes that what they are doing is dangerous and potentially life threatening but choose to do it anyway. These drivers usually sign a waiver prior to competing on the track. The waiver releases the track from any responsibility should injuries be incurred by the driver.
Now it all seems to look somewhat cut and dry at this point but looks can be deceiving. There are events that could allow a driver to sue the track, regardless of a signed waiver. For instance, if the track willfully allowed drivers to compete knowing that a portion of the track was in disrepair, the track could be sued.
Think about it; a vehicle traveling at speeds of 200mph hits a buckle in the track. At these speeds, it would be difficult to avoid, let alone control the vehicle once it made contact with the failed portion of track. Now, the owner of the track is supposed to ensure that it is meticulously maintained because they are aware of the speeds that these vehicles will be reaching while on their track, but they did not. The result could be a terrible accident that leaves one or more drivers seriously injured and out of work for nearly an entire year. So would this be a valid lawsuit? Absolutely. The track owner’s negligence deems them potentially liable for damages to not only the vehicles, but the drivers as well, if negligence can be proven.
As is the case with most injury suits, a skilled attorney is always recommended. You can discuss your options freely and find out exactly what you may be entitled to.
