Indy 500 Teams To Make Cockpits Safer

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INDIANAPOLIS (May 22, 1996) -- SpeedCenter has learned from MSN News that several teams will be adding panels in the cockpits of their of their cars to protect the driver during an impact.

The move is being touted as a "knee-jerk reaction" to the death of Scott Brayton, who was killed last Friday during a practice session when his car hit the wall at approximately 230 mph. It is reported that Scott suffered a 125-g impact for one full second.

In addition, Scott's helmet did not have a mark on it. In earlier reports it was thought his head had hit the wall.

His death was caused by severe brain trauma by the extremely high g-forces which literally snapped Scott's brain stem loose from the skull.

Because of that, some teams are adding carbon fiber panels to the sides of their cars' cockpits in time for Thursday's Carburetion Day, the final practice for the race. The panels will be fitted to the sides and rear of the race cars.

For the full story, check MSN News.