Trulli on driver safety

Safety in Formula One is always an issue to the forefront and work is constantly carried out to keep standards high. Renault's Jarno Trulli answers a couple of questions on the subject.

What are the features of your car that make you feel safe?

"I feel well protected thanks to the carbon tub, the side protection and the headrest. There are perhaps a couple of things that need improving, such as the front suspension wishbones that can come into the cockpit or even pierce your helmet. Apart from that, given the speeds we reach, I think today's cars are extremely safe. The mechanics know our life is in their hands and they do a fantastic job."

Does a driver's physical fitness contribute to ensuring his personal safety?

"Of course. It is vital to be in good physical shape to avoid injury. The neck is quite prone if you're hit from the side, for example. It's not only impact but also deceleration that can pose a problem."

The drivers have an official association to discuss safety issues...

"Yes. The GPDA - Grand Prix Drivers Association - talks a great deal with the International Federation. We bring up questions concerning the safety of not only the cars, but also the circuits and all the people involved in the organization of a Grand Prix. After each race, Michael Schumacher, David Coulthard and I draw up and send a report to the FIA. It's a lot of work, but very useful. Each accident is analysed with a view to seeing how the cars can be improved.

Do you feel personally concerned by the quest for improved safety, or do you prefer to put it to the back of your mind?

"The fact that I joined the GPDA shows my concern for driver safety. Having said that, I never think about the danger when I'm driving, although I do think about it sometimes retrospectively."

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