Originally Posted by
biovic
From personal experience of a hard frontal impact back in 2006 at NHIS between my car and a concrete jersey barrier, going from 55mph to 0 in less than a second (knocked over barrier so probably traveled 3 feet), I believe my H&N (happened to be a HANS) saved my life or at least prevented serious neck injury. I actually had no whiplash (I won't mention the lower spinal compression fractures, I believe due to loose belts (I wouldn't be surprised if some on this board may argue there is a H&N link :rolleyes:). I was probably one of the first half dozen racers in the region to wear a H&N, I think I bought it in 2004 ($900 cost back then) but I felt it was worth the money for increased safety, considering I (we) spend lots more money on go faster parts. I did not do a lot of research on other products (I think the Hutchins was the only other one at the time), but have used the HANS for 8 years and it is part of the safety equipment and routine for me at this point. My post is not meant to debate any device or the certification bodies, etc. Sure, I'm peeved too that the new rules will make me recertify the thing and the hassle of mailing it out to weherever to get checked/inspected and re-stickered, but I'll have to do it if I want to race.
Victor
03 ITA NER