In wake of Kevin Ward death, NASCAR implements new rules

Six days after NASCAR driver Kevin Ward was hit and killed on an upstate New York track, NASCAR has implemented new safety rules. NASCAR made the announcement Friday, saying it was part of their “continued efforts to evolve the safety of its sport”.

Here’s the exact wording that will go into the rule book:

During an Event, if a racecar is involved in an on-track incident and/or is stopped on or near the racing surface and unable to continue to make forward progress, unless extenuating emergency conditions exist with the racecar (i.e. fire, smoke in cockpit, etc.) the driver should take the following steps:

Shut off electrical power and, if driver is uninjured, lower window net
Do not loosen, disconnect or remove any driver personal safety equipment until directed to do so by safety personnel or a NASCAR/Track Official
After being directed to exit the racecar, the driver should proceed to either the ambulance, other vehicle, or as otherwise directed by safety personnel or a NASCAR/Track Official
At no time should a driver or crew member(s) approach any portion of the racing surface or apron
At no time should a driver or crew member(s) approach another moving vehicle
All vehicles not involved in the incident or that are able to continue afterwards should slow down to a cautious speed as outlined in Section 10-4 (Yellow Flag), use extreme care as they approach an incident scene, and follow any directions given by safety personnel or NASCAR/Track Officials. Cars in line behind the safety car should not weave or otherwise stray from the line in the vicinity of the incident.