NASCAR Ford Driver Blaney Wore Mouthpiece Collecting Crash Data

Innovative Technology Aids in Safety Advancements

During the recent NASCAR race at Talladega Superspeedway, Ford driver Ryan Blaney took part in a groundbreaking safety initiative. Blaney wore a custom-designed mouthpiece equipped with sensors capable of collecting valuable data in the event of a crash.

The mouthpiece, developed in collaboration with researchers at the University of North Carolina, is part of a comprehensive effort to enhance driver safety in NASCAR. By monitoring jaw movement, acceleration, and other factors, the device provides insights into the forces experienced by drivers during a crash.

Data-Driven Improvements

The data collected from the mouthpiece will be analyzed by experts to identify areas where safety equipment and procedures can be improved. This information will play a crucial role in developing new technologies and protocols to mitigate the risks associated with high-speed racing.

In addition to the mouthpiece, NASCAR has implemented a number of other safety measures in recent years, including the Next Gen car, which is designed to absorb more energy in a crash, and the Advanced Energy Reduction System (AERS), which helps to slow down cars more efficiently.

Driver Feedback

Blaney, who volunteered to wear the mouthpiece, praised the initiative and emphasized its potential to enhance driver safety. "This mouthpiece is a small thing, but it could make a big difference in terms of our safety," he said. "I'm happy to do whatever I can to help improve the safety of our sport."

The data collected from Blaney's mouthpiece will contribute to a growing body of knowledge about the biomechanics of racing crashes. This information is essential for developing more effective safety measures and improving the overall safety of NASCAR.