Story Highlights
- Reindler and Owen crash at race start
- Impact was a staggering 37G
- No serious injuries, both in hospital
V8 Supercar drivers Reindler and Owen taken to hospital after Perth crash
Before I knew it I saw flames inside the car.
V8 Supercar drivers Karl Reindler and Steve Owen were taken to hospital for precautionary tests after a spectacular start grid accident at today’s Trading Post Perth Challenge.
Reindler suffered superficial burns to his hands and face. Owen initially reported no injuries but later complained of abdominal soreness. He was then also taken to hospital for precuationary tests.
Data from the accident revealed the impact was a staggering 37G.
Reindler’s car stalled on the start grid and was slammed from behind at approximately 150km/h by VIP Pet Foods Owen, sparking a massive fire and stopping the race. Both Reindler and Owen managed to get out of their cars safely with the aide of the officials.
“The medical team and the officials did exactly what was required in aiding both drivers,” V8 Supercars Chief Executive Officer Martin Whitaker. “It’s testament to their efforts and the strength of the cars that no-one suffered any major injury from what was a very significant accident.”
Reindler was talking soon after in the medical centre.
“I loaded the clutch up and it stalled. I had my foot all the way down; I didn’t even release the clutch. I couldn’t get it going at all. There was nothing I could do. Before I knew it I saw flames inside the car. I guess I panicked and tried to get out as quick as I could. My body’s fine, it’s just my hands.”
Owen also said there was absolutely no time to react.
“It happened that quick I barely got on the brake by the time I hit him. I was in third gear, flat out after getting a pretty good start,” Owen said. “I opened both doors and there was fire. The officials were straight there and put the fire out which allowed me to get out quickly. I felt pretty sore when I first got out of the car but I’m alright now. I saw Karl briefly in the medical centre and fortunately he’s fine apart from some light burns.”
Dr Carl Le:
“Karl suffered some superficial burns to his hands and face and smoke inhalation. He has been transported to hospital, but he is okay.”
-source: Australian V8 Supercar Series
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