IRL driver killed in practice...

[transplant99]

Just saw the horrific video on ESPN.

A rookie named Paul Dana slammed into another car at 170 MPH and was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.

Just a horrible accident. Scary stuff.

The car is owned by Bobby Rahal and David Letterman.

The Rahal/Letterman team has withdrawn their other 2 cars from the race (including Danica Patrick).

[jam26]

I've been very critical of the safety of IRL cars, which tend to get airborne and launch into fences with regularity, but that doesn't appear to be the case this time.
Just a horrible crash. RIP Dana. Terrible way to start the open wheel racing season.

[I-Hate-Hulse]

Carpenter spun and hit the wall moments after the practice began at 10 a.m. EST. As Carpenter's battered car slid to a stop, Dana slammed into it at almost full speed -- about 200 mph.
Dana's car nearly split in half. The chassis flew about 6 feet off the ground and pieces were strewn down the track. It nearly turned over, but landed on its wheels before sliding to a halt.


Horrible crash, my condolences to his family. Sounds like the horrific accident when Zanardi lost his legs in Germany.

I've lost interest in open wheel since the CART IRL schism but still maintain a healthy respect to these drivers. I believe they truly deserve the dollars they get, moreso than some of the stick and ball sports out there (although I understand the market forces around that)

[Resolute 14]

I think Patrick Carpentier did that in his rookie year as well. Absolutely T-boned a dead car on a super-oval. Both drivers walked away from that one, as I recall.

[Bobblehead]

Do they use spotters in practice sessions? Looked like the car he hit had been there for a few seconds, i don't know why he wasn't warned to go high.