Reckless driving is not only operating a vehicle in a manner that is unsafe for yourself but for others as well. When it comes to motorsports, speed is everything. But sometimes the distinction between speed racing and reckless driving can be a very thin line. We are going to examine the key differences between reckless driving and speed racing, and how Motorsports culture impacts driving behavior.
Understanding Reckless Driving
What even is reckless driving? Well, there are a couple of different definitions and examples, but some common behaviors deemed as reckless are:
- Excessive Speeding
- Running red lights
- Driving Under The Influence
- Texting while driving
- Evading Law Enforcement
Many legal consequences can result from reckless behaviors. According to a reckless driving attorney in Arizona, these include fines, suspension of driver’s license, and even jail time.
What is Speed Racing?
On the other hand speed racing is different. This motorsport races vehicles at high speeds to win some type of reward (money, trophies, sponsorships, etc). Speed racing is usually viewed at an organized event and stadium, where spectators come to watch professionally skilled and trained racers drive motor vehicles. Since competitive racing deals with such high speeds, there are plenty of safety regulations and protocols set in place. Many of these precautions include:
- SAFER Barriers: The Steel and Foam Energy Reduction Barrier, which is a soft top wall that helps absorb the impact of a crash. This usually lines the walls of a track.
- Fire Suits: The appropriate attire is also important. Wearing fire-resistant suits, gloves, undergarments, and shoes can protect them from any potential fires.
- HANS Device: A Head and Neck device is used as a head restraint. This helps secure the driver’s helmet to their body instead of their seat. If they were to get into a crash this would prevent them from having their head whip around.
- Seats: A driver’s seat is also considered when it comes to safety. Carbon-fiber seats that wrap around the driver’s ribcage and shoulders can provide more support in a crash.
- Window Nets: This extra measure protects the driver from debris and contains their arms inside the vehicle. This is also used as a signal during a crash – if the driver lowers the net it means they are not injured.
- Seat Belts: There’s a six-point harness that helps secure them to their seat. However, if a quick getaway is needed all of the belts are connected to one single latch.
Key Differences Between Reckless Driving and Speed Racing
Now that we have gone over what reckless driving and speed racing are there are a couple of key differences between the two. One major fact is the environment. Speed racing takes place on a closed track. This is contained in a space that isn’t usually unsafe for those observing. However, reckless driving takes place on public roads with more people. This makes the risk of getting into a crash more likely.
When it comes to also the intent and purpose of each activity these can differ greatly. In motorsports, speed racing is seen as a sport and a competition. Reckless driving is seen more as thrill-seeking and crosses the line of public road safety.
Everything has regulations, some more than others. The same thing goes with speed racing and reckless driving. Speed racing is very regulated and has a lot of oversight with plenty of different rules and protocols. However, reckless driving has a lack of oversight and this is why this becomes such a concern with public road safety.
The Impact of Motorsports Culture on Driving Behavior
Motorsports culture has a huge influence on many different things. One of them is driving behavior. The role of the media and how it portrays this sport to others is especially influential. Speed racing seems glorious and alters the public’s perception of how dangerous this motorsport is.
Promoting Responsible Driving Through Motorsports
Many programs like the FiA Foundation are spreading the word about safe driving for motorsport drivers. This awareness brings to light the importance of road safety and how to prevent serious injury and even death. Initiatives like this can guide the public to safer driving habits and change the perception of speed racing, promoting responsible behavior on the road.
Conclusion
Understanding what exactly speed racing and reckless driving are, identifying their differences, and knowing how Motorsports can impact driving behavior can help us move toward public road safety. By encouraging others to recognize the difference and the seriousness of reckless driving, we can help each other make our public roads safer – not just for you and me, but for all drivers.
