Jimmie Johnson is considered to be one of the best racetrack drivers. He raced cleanly, gave a strong performance, and kept up a positive reputation off the track. Johnson made a serious error by neglecting to wear the HANS device before to a race, but even the best individuals can make mistakes. In a 2019 interview with Jeff Gluck, he talked about the incident, which seems to have occurred more than once. “I remember going out and running and coming in and taking off my gear and realizing I never had my HANS hooked up in the early days of the HANS device,” he added. “Wow, I’m glad nothing happened there,” I thought.
Millions of race fans are also relieved that he was unharmed. The HANS device is essential for safety in the race car, and failing to wear it may have resulted in a deadly collision. “Well, we raced forever before without them,” Johnson continued. However, I will always remember the moment I realized, “Wow, I thought I was protected and safe – and I wasn’t.” In 2001, HANS became a requirement for NASCAR. Prior to then, he had been racing with it as an optional extra for a few years. But as he developed in both his personal and professional life, he realized how crucial self-defense was. These examples demonstrate how important it is for the promotion to confirm whether the drivers have the proper gear on before races.
Star drivers’ initial rejection of the HANS device
In 2000, Brett Bodine received taunts and derogatory remarks when he wore the HANS device to races. In contrast to their reputation as tough guys who weren’t afraid of minor injuries, this odd new apparatus was designed to protect drivers against basal skull fractures. Among those who strongly opposed it was Dale Earnhardt. “Tie kerosene rags around your ankles to prevent ants from crawling up and eating your candy ass,” he once advised.Bill Elliott, his rival, had also been hesitant to utilize it. However, everything was drastically altered when the Intimidator passed away in 2001. By July, many drivers had started using the protective gear after they realized how important it was.
