“We Don’t Want Communism” – Kyle Petty & Jeff Gordon United Against Hans Device Days Before Dale Earnhardt’s Avoidable Death in 2001

The introduction of the HANS device (head and neck support) in NASCAR was met with a range of attitudes among drivers. Some were quick to embrace the new safety measure, seeing it as a necessary step towards protecting themselves and their fellow competitors on the track. Others, however, were more skeptical. They questioned the effectiveness of the device. Moreover, some even resisted using it, citing discomfort or inconvenience as their reasons. However, just days before NASCAR would witness one of its biggest tragedies involving one of its most beloved drivers, some comments were made by Jeff Gordon and Kyle Petty about the safety measurements.

However, those comments would only end up backfiring on themselves as what was soon to happen. It was the final lap of the iconic Daytona 500 race during the 2001 season. Earnhardt Sr‘s car veered onto the outside wall slamming into it. What looked like a normal NASCAR crash to everyone soon took a darker turn. The Intimidator never walked out of his car alive. Later on, the officials announced the tragic and unfortunate passing of one of the sport’s greatest drivers.

Kyle Petty told the media, “It’s the driver’s responsibility to look after himself. We don’t want communism.” Moreover, about the implementation of the HANS device, even Jeff Gordon said, “We’ve got to learn more about it before we go racing with it.”

Read More: “Right Down the Middle” – Honours Even Between Popular “Because of His Death” Dale Sr. and “Universally Loved” Son Dale Earnhardt Jr

Surely, none of them had ever anticipated that such a safety device would mean the difference between life and death. All of this could have been avoidable, had the drivers, especially Earnhardt, shown a positive outlook towards the HANS device.

What were Dale Earnhardt Sr’s thoughts on the HANS device?

One driver who was particularly opposed to the HANS device was Dale Earnhardt Sr. Known for his tough, no-nonsense approach to racing, Earnhardt was vocal in his refusal to wear the device. He saw it as an unnecessary burden and one that he was unwilling to bear.

Tragically, Earnhardt’s refusal to use the HANS device may have contributed to his death in a 2001 crash. His death served as a wake-up call for the NASCAR community. Furthermore, the HANS device has since become standard equipment for all drivers.

Watch This Story: Perennial Fan-Favorites Dale Earnhardt Jr and Chase Elliott Have This NASCAR Legend to Thank for Their Superstardom

Today, attitudes toward the HANS device are much different from what they were in the past. Most drivers understand the importance of safety and are willing to take whatever precautions are necessary to protect themselves and their fellow competitors. The lessons learned from Earnhardt’s death have had a lasting impact on the sport. Since then, HANS device has become an integral part of NASCAR culture.