Romain Grosjean had a terrifying accident at the Bahrain Grand Prix. He lost control of the car and darted into the barriers at 140 mph at turn 3 of the first lap. The car split into two as fire engulfed the driver.
Romain Grosjean leaped out of the flames as the marshalls and doctors came to his rescue. He was immediately taken to a hospital via a helicopter for further evaluation; he sent out a message to the Formula 1 world from his hospital bed this morning.
Miraculously, he left the accident with minor injuries of burns in his hands and ankles. Things could have been much more devastating. However, he said the controversial Halo safety device eventually saved his life.
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Haas F1 team has just announced a medical update on Romain Grosjean’s conditions. His treatment of injuries sustained is going well. Meanwhile, he is expected to be discharged from the hospital by December 1.
Haas F1 Team Statement: Romain Grosjean – Medical Update#HaasF1 pic.twitter.com/WqofSCeNJM
— Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) November 30, 2020
Watch More – Horror F1 Crash at the Start of Bahrain GP Ends in Scary Fireball for Romain Grosjean
Romain Grosjean felt a force of 53G upon the impact
It was one of the most horrifying crashes of the century. The fact that he was able to walk away from the accident practically unscathed is nothing short of amazing. The car broke into two and darted through the barriers, and one half was embedded between the sheets of metals of the barrier.
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According to a report, “Grosjean hit the barrier at 137mph and the impact measured a force of 53G. He was in the inferno for nearly 30 seconds before extracting himself and then being helped over the barrier”
The most striking takeaway from the incident is FIA’s work towards ensuring safety in Formula 1. The sport has been continuously working towards improving the safety on the track, and we got to see the effectiveness of these steps on Sunday.
“It seems certain the halo head-protection device, introduced amid significant controversy in 2018, saved Grosjean’s life. The wishbone-shaped titanium structure that wraps around the driver’s head from the front of the cockpit looks to have taken the impact of the metal barriers,” said the reports.
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Such an intense accident could always spell disastrous news. However, we are glad that Grosjean can be discharged by December 1. Meanwhile, FIA has launched an investigation into the failure of the barricades to keep improving on their safety for drivers.