Curious persons view two motor vehicles that were involved in a fatal accident on Hope Road on June 25. Police reports say that the driver of the vehicle that caused the accident was driving at excessive speed. - RICARDO MAKYN/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
RECENT HIGH-PROFILE accidents have highlighted the need for motorists to know the differences between organised racing and ordinary motor vehicle on the street. Both are done under completely different circumstances. An understanding of the difference could prevent some accidents.
Within Jamaica, the region or internationally, participants in motor sports and other extreme sports, are mandated to apply certain safety measures. These have been instituted with a view to ensuring the safety of not only the participants but also spectators.
First: safety gear, that is, helmet, gloves, neck brace, suit, safety harness, shoes and fire extinguisher are made of material that is fire-proof and can withstand damage at certain speeds.
Safety barriers such as: sand pits, tyre barriers and other shock absorbent barriers.
Safety rescue equipment such as fire brigades, ambulances, trained medical professionals, cutting equipment, helicopters /air ambulances are on site.
Inspections and testing throughout the day are required for tyres, engines, axles, fuel tanks, fuel lines, brakes quality, steering and suspension parts. Motor sport tyres are specifically designed to handle surface or terrain used.
Medical testing for fitness is done and the blood type of the participants must be visually displayed. Medical history is required that is - surgery, allergies. This is issued by a doctor.
Additional safety requirements include:
Five strap seat belt covering the legs, shoulders and abdomen.
A master switch that can control all electrical circuits.
Double rear view mirrors
Special padding in cockpit to protect driver's head, legs and vitals.
Special bolts for quick seat release.
Mental and physical fitness is measured and evaluated on a continuous basis to ensure that fatigue does not set in as this will impair concentration and safety.
Drivers are approved for racing only after competitive times are established, and all rules are understood. A drivers' license is issued initially signalling 'rookie' status. This is later converted to full driver.
In organised racing, everybody travels in the same direction, therefore, almost eliminating the chance of a head-on collision. This is not so on the roads of Jamaica which are not built for the high speeds at which some motorists tend to travel. In some countries, driver education is a part of the school curriculum and exposure to motor sports begins as early as three-five years old, removing the anxiety that an inexperienced driver might have. Young drivers also get an early appreciation for careful use of the road.
Since the points listed above apply to driving under specialised conditions, if you have a need to speed, it should be taken to a track near you, not the main thoroughfares of Jamaica.
For further information see:
www.makeroadssafe.org
www.fiainstitute.com
www.fiafoundation.com
Dwight Moore is a motor sport participant.
