1620 5th AvenueAt least 33 fans were injured at Daytona International Speedway in Florida on February 23 when car debris flew into the spectator stands following an accident. Spectators were gathered to watch the race for the Daytona 500, NASCAR’s flagship event.
The accident occurred Saturday afternoon at the Nationwide Series race, one day before the Daytona 500. Two drivers collided on the last lap of the race, and debris from the car flew through the protective barriers and into the stands. Fans recording the race in the stands captured footage of the wreck, including a tire that struck one fan. A burning engine from one of the cars also wedged through the barrier and into the stands.
“I didn’t know if there was a car on top of people,” said spectator Shannan Devine, who was in the stands about 250 feet behind where the debris hit. “I didn’t know what to think. I’m an emotional person and I immediately started to cry. It was very scary. Absolutely scary. I love the speed of the sport, but it’s so dangerous.”
When fans purchase NASCAR tickets they assume a certain level of risk. However, if the track was negligent or did not properly maintain safety equipment, it can be held liable for these injuries. Please contact our firm for a free consultation if you or a loved one has been injured in an accident.
Tip of the week: Read the fine print when you purchase tickets for entertainment venues or any other activity. You may want to research the track record of the venue or other service providers to determine if they have had safety issues in the past.
Bonnici Law Group, APC—San Diego personal injury lawyer
1620 5th Avenue