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KALITTA BREAKS TRACK E.T. RECORD, B. FORCE SETS NATIONAL SPEED RECORD; LEE, GLENN AND HERRERA RACE TO NO. 1 SPOTS AT AMERICAN REBEL LIGHT NHRA 4-WIDE NATIONALS

B. Force makes fastest run in Top Fuel history with 341-mph blast at zMAX Dragway

CHARLOTTE (April 25, 2025) – Top Fuel’s Doug Kalitta set the track E.T. record at zMAX Dragway on Friday, taking the provisional No. 1 qualifier, while Brittany Force made the fastest run in Top Fuel history at the 15th annual American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals.

Paul Lee (Funny Car), Dallas Glenn (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) are also the provisional No. 1 qualifiers at the fifth of 20 races during the 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season.

In the same quad under the lights in Charlotte – and at the 1,000th Top Fuel race in NHRA history – both Kalitta and Force put on a spectacular and record-breaking show. Kalitta went a zMAX-record 3.646-seconds at 333.74 mph in his 11,000-horsepower Mac Tools dragster, looking to qualify No. 1 for the third time this season and 61st time in his career.

Force, meanwhile, went an incredible 341.58 mph on a run of 3.667 in 11,000-horsepower HendrickCars.com dragster, posting the first 340-mph run in Top Fuel history and powering past her previous speed record of 338.94, which was set in Pomona during her championship season in 2022. Force went a blistering 301.00 to the eighth-mile and then rolled to more Top Fuel history at the finish line during an unforgettable quad on Friday night.

“Having the night session here, the track is in incredible shape, so definitely some good (runs),” Kalitta said. “It was the opportunity of the weekend, really, for all of us, but yeah, with the 1,000th race, it’s a cool and then there’s a cool trophy.

“Right now, my car is running incredibly well. Shawn Langdon, ended up second, so both our cars are running really well. Alan [Johnson] and Brian [Husen, crew chiefs] and all our guys, and Connie [Kalitta, team owner] is definitely giving us everything we need, and we’ve got some momentum going on our side here right now.”

Added Force: “She was flying on that run and we really needed that. To go 341, that’s awesome and we’re all really excited about that.”

Langdon took the second spot on Friday with a 3.665 at 333.33 to give Kalitta Motorsports the top two spots, while Force qualified third.

Back in the Funny Car points lead, Paul Lee continues to showcase his team’s stellar potential, racing to the No. 1 position under the lights on Friday with a standout run of 3.829 at 328.54 in his 11,000-horsepower SRI Performance/Daido Metal Dodge Charger SRT.

Lee flirted with the track record of 3.820 and now is in line for his second No. 1 qualifier through the first five races of the season. Lee had only one No. 1 qualifier in his previous 156 races, but the team has made incredible improvements last year and through the first two months in 2025. He’s also been to two final rounds this year, winning in Phoenix and finishing as the runner-up at the four-wide race in Las Vegas.

“After we smoked the tires on our first run, just trying to go a little too fast for the track conditions, Jonnie [Lindberg, crew chief] said, ‘We’re going to try to run 3.82,’ and sure enough, we did,” Lee said. “It left the line hard, real hard. I knew it was on a good run and then it just trucked on down there all the way, pulled hard the away. For these conditions at this track, it was almost a perfect run.

“If the conditions stay the same tomorrow, a lot of cars could go faster. Austin Prock can easily run faster. Jack Beckman, of course, Bob Tasca, J.R. Todd, Spencer Hyde, so anybody could take that No. 1. You might see an .80 flat, or maybe even a .79 by one of those guys. Hopefully, by us.”

Vegas winner and reigning world champion Austin Prock is currently second after going 3.844 at 336.49 and Daniel Wilkerson’s career-best 3.855 at 330.07 has him third.

In Pro Stock, the Dallas Glenn and Greg Anderson show continued, as both had identical 6.502 performances as their impressive seasons continued for KB Titan Racing. Glenn took the No. 1 spot on speed, as his 211.10 in his RAD Torque Systems Chevrolet Camaro edged out Anderson’s 210.93 for the top position and the chance for the GESi Pro Stock No. 1 Qualifier Award.

It’s a remarkable run dating back to late last year for the standout drivers, with one or the other winning the last five races. That includes the first four events of 2024, with both winning twice. Glenn was the most recent thanks to his victory at the 4-Wide Nationals in Las Vegas and his momentum kept up on Friday as Glenn looks for his first No. 1 qualifier of the year.

“I think this shows how hard they work at KB Titan,” Glenn said. “This winter, they burned through several drums of fuel on dyno. It takes a lot of pulls to burn that much fuel. We also worked hard on the cars to get them as perfect as we can and it’s showing right now. We picked up and we’re making quality runs.

“My first run today was a little shaky, it went a bit to the right and that put us in in a tough spot for the second run, so we needed this. The air will be similar but maybe a touch worse (tomorrow). I hope Greg doesn’t throw kitchen sink at it and take the top spot from me.”

Anderson is second, while Matt Hartford took the third position on the strength of his 6.510 at 209.43.

Racing for the first time since early March, the Pro Stock Motorcycle category returned on Friday and defending world champion Gaige Herrera was back to his usual dominant self, going a remarkable 6.680 at 201.64 on his RevZilla/Mission Foods/Vance & Hines Suzuki to take the provisional No. 1 spot.

Herrera, who won in Gainesville to open 2025 after winning back-to-back world titles, was the quickest bike in each session, just missing the track record during the night session. It also puts Herrera, the defending event winner, on track for his milestone 25th career No. 1 qualifier, which has a chance to happen in just his 38th career race in the category.

“We’ve had six weeks off since Gainesville and our guys have been busy in the shop working. Andrew [Hines, crew chief] is still learning this new [VP Fuel] and it’s showing on the dyno and on the track,” Herrera said. “That run felt the same as last year when we set the record in Dallas. I had a 1.02-second 60-foot time, which is impressive at our current weight. It was amazing, a picture-perfect run. I didn’t have to correct it.

“For the four-wide, I don’t change my mindset. You just have to pay attention. With the bikes it might be a bit easier than a car because you can look around.”

Richard Gadson moved to second in the night session with a run of 6.759 at 200.77 and Matt Smith’s 6.773 at 201.34 has him third.

Qualifying continues at 12:30 p.m. ET on Saturday at the American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals at zMAX Dragway in Charlotte.


CONCORD, N.C. — Results Friday after the first two of four rounds of qualifying for the 15th annual American Rebel Light NHRA 4-Wide Nationals at zMax Dragway, fifth of 20 events in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Qualifying will continue Saturday for Sunday’s final eliminations.

Top Fuel — 1. Doug Kalitta, 3.646 seconds, 333.74 mph; 2. Shawn Langdon, 3.665, 333.33; 3. Brittany Force, 3.667, 341.59; 4. Shawn Reed, 3.703, 329.75; 5. Antron Brown, 3.703, 328.62; 6. Justin Ashley, 3.708, 336.23; 7. Josh Hart, 3.709, 323.12; 8. Tony Stewart, 3.711, 324.05; 9. Steve Torrence, 3.715, 330.63; 10. Ida Zetterstrom, 3.744, 329.67; 11. Spencer Massey, 3.759, 304.94; 12. Clay Millican, 3.769, 328.70; 13. Doug Foley, 3.811, 302.69; 14. Todd Paton, 3.997, 303.23; 15. Cameron Ferre, 8.813, 84.14; 16. Scott Farley, 14.397, 29.25.

Funny Car — 1. Paul Lee, Dodge Charger, 3.829, 328.54; 2. Austin Prock, Chevy Camaro, 3.844, 336.49; 3. Daniel Wilkerson, Ford Mustang, 3.855, 330.07; 4. Spencer Hyde, Mustang, 3.863, 329.83; 5. Jack Beckman, Camaro, 3.865, 331.61; 6. Bob Tasca III, Mustang, 3.867, 336.65; 7. Ron Capps, Toyota GR Supra, 3.867, 320.05; 8. Matt Hagan, Charger, 3.873, 330.39; 9. Bobby Bode, GR Supra, 3.904, 306.33; 10. Cruz Pedregon, Charger, 3.916, 331.36; 11. J.R. Todd, GR Supra, 3.924, 325.37; 12. Alexis DeJoria, Charger, 3.925, 324.51; 13. Chad Green, Mustang, 3.926, 317.34; 14. Hunter Green, Charger, 3.931, 321.12; 15. Buddy Hull, Charger, 4.010, 320.97; 16. Dave Richards, Mustang, 7.262, 150.70. Not Qualified: 17. John Smith, 8.725, 79.36; 18. Dale Creasy Jr., 10.349, 80.18.

Pro Stock — 1. Dallas Glenn, Chevy Camaro, 6.502, 211.10; 2. Greg Anderson, Camaro, 6.502, 210.93; 3. Matt Hartford, Camaro, 6.510, 210.21; 4. Cory Reed, Camaro, 6.526, 210.83; 5. Eric Latino, Camaro, 6.531, 209.79; 6. Greg Stanfield, Camaro, 6.544, 209.88; 7. Deric Kramer, Camaro, 6.545, 210.73; 8. Matt Latino, Camaro, 6.554, 210.28; 9. Mason McGaha, Camaro, 6.557, 209.52; 10. Brandon Foster, Camaro, 6.558, 209.26; 11. Chris McGaha, Camaro, 6.558, 209.17; 12. Cody Coughlin, Camaro, 6.559, 209.62; 13. Troy Coughlin Jr., Camaro, 6.559, 210.08; 14. Jeg Coughlin, Camaro, 6.561, 209.56; 15. Kenny Delco, Camaro, 6.571, 208.42; 16. Erica Enders, Camaro, 6.574, 209.30. Not Qualified: 17. David Cuadra, 6.576, 207.40; 18. Fernando Cuadra Jr., 6.579, 208.62; 19. Stephen Bell, 6.592, 209.07; 20. Aaron Stanfield, 6.609, 209.56; 21. Brandon Miller, 6.622, 206.92; 22. Jerry Tucker, 7.227, 151.85; 23. Cristian Cuadra, 10.231, 89.67.

Pro Stock Motorcycle — 1. Gaige Herrera, Suzuki, 6.680, 201.64; 2. Richard Gadson, Suzuki, 6.759, 200.77; 3. Matt Smith, Buell, 6.773, 201.34; 4. Marc Ingwersen, EBR, 6.799, 197.80; 5. Steve Johnson, Suzuki, 6.805, 196.79; 6. Angie Smith, Buell, 6.816, 198.52; 7. Kelly Clontz, Suzuki, 6.817, 198.47; 8. Hector Arana Jr, EBR, 6.824, 199.88; 9. John Hall, Beull, 6.833, 198.58; 10. Jianna Evaristo, Buell, 6.854, 196.10; 11. Chase Van Sant, Suzuki, 6.895, 197.91; 12. Jerry Savoie, Suzuki, 6.902, 194.38; 13. Ryan Oehler, EBR, 6.911, 194.94; 14. Chris Bostick, Suzuki, 7.144, 189.87. Not Qualified: 15. Brandon Litten, Suzuki, DQ.

Tips for a Strong Cash Offer on Your Vehicle

Photo by Roman Synkevych on Unsplash

Selling your vehicle for a strong cash offer takes more than a clean car and a confident smile. Buyers today are savvier, with countless resources to evaluate the worth of a car and spot a deal that doesn’t meet their standards. Whether you’re trying to sell a well-maintained luxury coupe or a trusty old commuter, your approach can significantly influence how much cash you walk away with. The way you present your vehicle, who you sell to, and how you negotiate are all crucial to maximizing your payout. Let’s explore what it takes to make your cash offer stand out — and pay off.

Work with Independent Buyers for a Competitive Edge

Independent buyers often provide more flexible terms than dealerships or large auto companies. These buyers tend to evaluate a vehicle’s worth on a case-by-case basis, which means there’s potential for a higher offer if your car is in good shape or has desirable features. This personal approach can be a breath of fresh air compared to rigid dealership offers based on algorithms and resale projections. Midway through exploring independent options, you might find that working with experts like Exotic Auto can open the door to offers that are both fair and well-informed, especially when dealing with unique or high-end vehicles. Their insight into niche markets can play to your advantage.

Prep Your Vehicle Like a Pro

Before you list your car or invite buyers to take a look, it needs to shine — literally and figuratively. A thorough cleaning inside and out gives a great first impression. Go beyond the basics: remove personal items, shampoo the carpets, condition the seats, and polish the dashboard. Fix minor dents or scratches if possible, and make sure all lights, windows, and electronics are working properly. These visual and functional upgrades might seem minor, but they give your vehicle an edge in a competitive market.

Next, gather all the necessary paperwork. A complete service history reassures buyers that the car has been well cared for, while current registration and a clean title simplify the transaction. Being prepared suggests professionalism and often justifies a stronger offer.

Know the Value of What You’re Selling

A solid cash offer starts with understanding what your car is worth. Use reputable valuation tools to estimate its current market value based on the make, model, year, mileage, and condition. Look at local listings to see what similar vehicles are going for in your area. This research arms you with facts, which are crucial when negotiations begin. A seller who knows the numbers won’t be easily pressured into accepting a lowball offer.

Pay close attention to recent upgrades or rare features your car may have — custom paint, aftermarket wheels, or a premium sound system, for example. These can boost value, especially with buyers who appreciate style and substance.

Set the Right Asking Price

Start with a clear idea of what you’re willing to accept, and set your asking price slightly higher to leave room for negotiation. If you aim too low, buyers might assume there’s something wrong with the car. Go too high, and you risk scaring off serious offers altogether. Your price should reflect your research, the current demand for your vehicle type, and its overall condition.

Remember, the goal is not just to sell — it’s to sell well. Be confident, but stay open to reasonable counteroffers. Showing flexibility in negotiations, without straying from your bottom line, often leads to better results.

Communicate with Confidence and Clarity

Every interaction with a potential buyer affects how they perceive the deal. Respond promptly to inquiries, be honest about the vehicle’s condition, and be ready to answer questions in detail. The more open and confident you are, the more buyers trust that your offer is worth serious consideration.

If someone wants to inspect the car or take it for a test drive, make yourself available and be transparent. This kind of openness demonstrates that you have nothing to hide, increasing your chances of closing at a price you’re happy with.

Time the Market and Know When to Act

Time the Market and Know When to Act

The timing of your sale can affect the offers you receive. Convertibles and sports cars tend to do better in the spring and summer, while SUVs and trucks are in higher demand during fall and winter. If you’re not in a rush, waiting for the right season or market shift can bring a better deal.

That said, holding out too long can backfire if your car depreciates or if you rack up more miles. Stay aware of your vehicle’s value trends, and make your move when the numbers look right. A quick, strong cash offer today might be worth more than a hypothetical higher one months down the road.

Selling your car for cash isn’t just a transaction — it’s a negotiation built on preparation, presentation, and timing. The more effort you put into each step of the process, the better your odds of securing a strong offer. By working with experienced independent buyers, polishing your car inside and out, understanding its true market value, and approaching negotiations with both confidence and flexibility, you can maximize what you get in hand.

How to Plan a Racing Trip Without Blowing Your Budget on Tickets and Gear

Photo by Abdulwahab Alawadhi: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-car-on-expressway-3422964/

Traveling to a racing event can be an exhilarating experience that many fans dream of. However, the costs associated with purchasing tickets, gear, and accommodations can quickly add up. Fortunately, there are numerous strategies that racing enthusiasts can implement to ensure they enjoy their experience without overspending. The following guide will share practical tips on how to plan a memorable racing trip while keeping an eye on your budget.

Setting a Budget

Creating a detailed budget is the first step in planning your racing trip. Begin by identifying how much you can afford to spend overall. Your budget should account for race tickets, accommodations, transportation, food, and additional expenses like souvenirs or activities. This will help you prioritize your spending and make informed decisions throughout the planning process. While estimating, remember to leave some wiggle room for unforeseen expenses. By having a clear budget, you are less likely to indulge in spur-of-the-moment purchases that can take a toll on your finances, allowing you to focus on making the most of your racing adventure.

Finding Affordable Tickets

Various platforms specialize in providing discounts on event tickets. Make sure to do your research several weeks or even months ahead of the event you want to attend. Ticket prices can vary depending on factors such as the event’s popularity, seating location, and when you purchase them. Utilizing codes can be a game-changer. Many ticket services offer promotions that can significantly reduce the total price. 

Keeping an eye on sales and taking advantage of early bird pricing can maximize your chances of savings. You should frequently visit dedicated fan sites, social media channels, and forums related to your racing interest, as these can provide leads on time-sensitive promotions. Finding good deals on racing tickets should be a priority when planning your trip. 

Embracing Budget Accommodations

Choosing the right accommodation can also play a significant role in your overall expenses. Instead of staying at high-end hotels, consider more budget-friendly options like hostels, campsites, or short-term rentals. Not only do these alternatives often save you a significant amount of money, but they can also provide unique experiences.

Some fans opt to camp near the racetrack, which can give you the advantage of being close to the action and an exciting atmosphere. If you’re looking for additional savings, you could also explore shared accommodations. Websites such as Airbnb allow you to find local homes or apartments to rent, often at a fraction of hotel prices. It is worth comparing prices on various platforms, as timing and availability can make a noticeable difference.

Planning Your Meals Wisely

Food can be one of the more expensive aspects of any trip. To avoid blowing your budget on meals, consider preparing some dishes yourself, especially if you secure a rental with cooking facilities. On race days, it can be both fun and economical to pack a cooler with sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. 

When you do choose to eat out, research local dining spots that are popular among the locals. These hole-in-the-wall gems often offer delicious meals at far lower prices than tourist traps. Online reviews and food blogs can provide useful insights to guide you toward affordable yet enjoyable dining options.

Transportation Solutions

Getting to the race event can also add significant costs to your trip. Instead of renting a car, explore public transport options, which are often more cost-effective. Many cities have reliable and affordable transit systems that can get you to the race venues without the hassles that come with driving and parking. 

Joining carpooling groups or ride shares can further minimize travel expenses while allowing you to meet fellow fans who share your passion. If you’re planning on bringing your own vehicle, consider car maintenance before the trip to prevent unexpected repair costs while on the road. Ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition, as this can save you both time and money during your travels.

Making the Most of Your Experience

While sticking to your budget is important, don’t forget that the experience is what truly matters. Plan out daily itineraries that allow you to enjoy the event and any associated activities without straying too far from your financial plan. Many racetracks host pre-race events, fan zones, and concerts, which can provide entertainment at little to no cost. These events can be just as thrilling as the race itself, so don’t miss out on the opportunities they offer. 

Gauge your desires and find a balance between indulgence and practicality. You might allow yourself to splurge on a premium ticket or merchandise if you’ve saved in other areas. Your racing trip should create lasting memories and experiences rather than stress about budget constraints. While ensuring you remain mindful of your expenses, remember that a racing trip is all about the thrill of the event. 

By skillfully planning your budget and seeking out affordable options for tickets, accommodations, meals, and transportation, you can significantly reduce your spending without sacrificing the enjoyment of the experience. Each of these tips contributes to a well-rounded approach that allows racing fans to participate in the excitement while remaining within their financial limits. Ultimately, the key is to plan, adapt, and enjoy every moment of your racing adventure.

Jesse Love speeds to second Xfinity pole of 2025 at Talladega

TALLADEGA, ALABAMA - APRIL 25: Jesse Love, driver of the #2 WAT Chevrolet, poses with the pole award winner $2,00.00 check during qualifying for the NASCAR Xfinity Series Ag-Pro 300 at Talladega Superspeedway on April 25, 2025 in Talladega, Alabama. (Photo by Logan Riely/Getty Images).

Jesse Love claimed the pole position for the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Ag-Pro 300 at Talladega Superspeedway on Friday, April 25.

The event’s starting lineup was determined in a single qualifying round. The second and final qualifying round was canceled due to inclement weather. Each of the entered competitors cycled their respective entries around the Talladega Superspeedway venue to post the fastest qualifying lap in a single-lap trial.

During the single qualifying trial, Jesse Love, the 2023 ARCA Menards Series champion and the reigning Xfinity Series’ Rookie-of-the-Year recipient from Menlo Park, California, posted a qualifying lap of 182.240 mph in 52.546 seconds in his No. 2 WAT/Richard Childress Racing (RCR) Chevrolet Camaro entry. Love’s lap was enough for him to claim the top-starting spot over his RCR teammate Austin Hill.

Love, who achieved his first Xfinity career victory during the spring Talladega event a year ago, notched his seventh career pole in the Xfinity Series division. The pole is his second in a row at Talladega, his second of the 2025 season and his seventh on a superspeedway venue.

The pole award was a redemptive moment for Jesse Love after his victory in last weekend’s event at Rockingham Speedway was stripped. His race-winning car failed the post-race inspection process for violating Rule 14.14.2.I-5.H from the NASCAR rule book. It states that the mating surfaces between the truck trailing arm and U-bolt saddle are in complete contact with each other.

RCR appealed the penalty, but it was denied this past Wednesday. Amid the disqualification from Rockingham, Love, who won the 2025 Xfinity opener at Daytona International Speedway in February and is guaranteed a spot in this year’s Playoffs, will pursue his second victory of the year for Saturday’s event at Talladega.

“[I’m] Looking forward to tomorrow,” Love said on the CW App. “Obviously, my car’s as fast as Xfinity Mobile. I think we got a really good shot at [the race win].

“I’ve never sat on the pole here at Talladega, so that’s really cool. [I] Just got to stay out front and when we do lose track position, [I’ll] keep a calm head and just kind of methodically make our way up and not make any little percentage moves that put us back a few rows.”

Austin Hill made it an RCR front-row sweep after he occupied the second-place starting spot with a qualifying lap of 181.591 mph in 52.734 seconds. Ironically, the 2025 Xfinity Series’ spring Talladega event marks the sixth time over the previous two seasons that RCR’s Love and Hill swept the front row for an upcoming superspeedway event.

Justin Allgaier, Joey Gase and Jeb Burton will start in the top five. Rrookie Taylor Gray, Josh Williams, rookie Daniel Dye, Ryan Ellis and Jeremy Clements completed the top-10 spots of the starting grid, respectively.

Notably, the following names that included Sheldon Creed, rookie Connor Zilisch, rookie Christian Eckes, Brandon Jones, Aric Almirola, rookie William Sawalich, rookie Carson Kvapil, rookie Nick Sanchez, Katherine Legge, Harrison Burton, Jeffrey Earnhardt, Parker Retzlaff, Sam Mayer, Ryan Sieg, Jeese Iwuji and Brennan Poole will start 11th, 13th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 27th, 29th, 30th, 33rd, 34th, 35th, 36th and 37th, respectively. In addition, Sammy Smith, winner of last weekend’s event at Rockingham Speedway and the 2024 fall Talladega event, qualified 14th.

With 41 competitors vying for 38 starting spots, Garrett Smithley, Austin Green and Jake Garcia were the trio whom failed to qualify for the main event.

Qualifying position, best speed, best time:

1. Jesse Love, 182.240 mph, 52.546 seconds

2. Austin Hill, 181.591 mph, 52.734 seconds

3. Justin Allgaier, 180.946 mph, 52.922 seconds

4. Joey Gase, 180.891 mph, 52.938 seconds

5. Jeb Burton, 180.884 mph, 52.940 seconds

6. Taylor Gray, 180.853 mph, 52.949 seconds

7. Josh Williams, 180.771 mph, 52.973 seconds

8. Daniel Dye, 180.601 mph, 53.023 seconds

9. Ryan Ellis, 180.533 mph, 53.043 seconds

10. Jeremy Clements, 180.475 mph, 53.060 seconds

11. Sheldon Creed, 180.455 mph, 53.066 seconds

12. Matt DiBenedetto, 180.455 mph, 53.066 seconds

13. Connor Zilisch, 180.441 mph, 53.070 seconds

14. Sammy Smith, 180.332 mph, 53.102 seconds

15. Christian Eckes, 180.207 mph, 53.139 seconds

16. Brandon Jones, 180.112 mph, 53.167 seconds

17. Aric Almirola, 179.858 mph, 53.242 seconds

18. William Sawalich, 179.841 mph, 53.247 seconds

19. Anthony Alfredo, 179.807 mph, 53.257 seconds

20. Carson Kvapil, 179.804 mph, 53.258 seconds

21. Leland Honeyman, 179.777 mph, 53.266 seconds

22. Dean Thompson, 179.736 mph, 53.278 seconds

23. Nick Sanchez, 179.662 mph, 53.300 seconds

24. Kris Wright, 179.598 mph, 53.319 seconds

25. Greg Van Alst, 179.578 mph, 53.325 seconds

26. Kyle Sieg, 179.554 mph, 53.332 seconds

27. Katherine Legge, 179.541 mph, 53.336 seconds

28. Patrick Emerling, 179.501 mph, 53.348 seconds

29. Harrison Burton, 179.477 mph, 53.355 seconds

30. Jeffrey Earnhardt, 179.440 mph, 53.366 seconds

31. Blaine Perkins, 179.302 mph, 53.407 seconds

32. Mason Maggio, 179.292 mph, 53.410 seconds

33. Parker Retzlaff, Owner Points

34. Sam Mayer, Owner Points

35. Ryan Sieg, Owner Points

36. Jesse Iwuji, Owner Points

37. Brennan Poole, Owner Points

38. Caesar Bacarella, Owner Points

The 2025 Ag-Pro 300 at Talladega Superspeedway is set to occur on Saturday, April 26, and air at 4 p.m. ET on the CW Network.

Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) and Michelin Announce Multi-Year Partnership

Michelin Named Official Tire and Presenting Sponsor of the HSR Prototype Challenge Presented by Michelin

BRASELTON, Georgia (April 25, 2025) – Officials from Michelin North America, Inc. and Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) today announced a multi-year agreement that will see the iconic tire maker become an official partner of HSR, the premier sanctioning body in North America for historic and vintage motorsports competition.

In addition to having a presence and branding at every event on the HSR season championship schedule, Michelin also has been named the official presenting sponsor and the official tire of the HSR Prototype Challenge presented by Michelin, a series featuring modern prototypes retired from contemporary competition.

The new partnership adds to the expansive relationship between Michelin and IMSA, the leading sanctioning body for world-recognized sports car racing in North America that acquired HSR in 2022. Prior to that, Michelin was named the official tire for all classes in IMSA’s top-tier WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the title sponsor of the production-based IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge series in 2019.

Today, and now including HSR Prototype Challenge, the majority of the racing series in the IMSA family compete on Michelin tires.

Debuting last year, the second season of the HSR Prototype Challenge presented by Michelin features an expanded class structure for 2025. Open only to LMP3 cars in 2024’s inaugural HSR Prototype Challenge season, the series has fully expanded to four different classes this year.

From the top-tier P1 class for retired LMP1 and DPi cars down to the P4 division for first generation Daytona Prototypes and in between, the Challenge series has a class for every type of contemporary prototype just past its competitive prime. All competing Prototype Challenge teams will race exclusively on available Michelin fitments across all four classes.

The Michelin partnership announcement was made on the opening day of official competition at the 47th HSR The Mitty presented by Hagerty at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta (MRRA), which takes place throughout the weekend. One of the weekend highlights is Round 2 of the 2025 Prototype Challenge presented by Michelin, which starts Saturday at 5:25 p.m. EDT for a 90-minute race into twilight.

Last month’s HSR Prototype Challenge presented by Michelin season opener at Sebring International Raceway came down to an all-DPi battle for the overall win between two friendly rivals. Bob Neapole and Guy Cosmo emerged victorious in the RBN Motorsports with Cosmo-Sport 2020 No. 60 Acura ARX-05 prepared by Hudson Historics ahead of their friends and competitors Pierce Marshall and Eric Foss in the 2017 No. 02 Matador Motorsports Cadillac DPi.

Tickets for the 47th HSR The Mitty presented by Hagerty at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta can be purchased online at: https://am.ticketmaster.com/ral/buy/Mitty2025.

For more information, please visit www.HSRRace.com for the official 47th HSR Mitty presented by Hagerty Event Page.

Raymond Cotton, Director of Motorsports for Michelin North America: “Michelin is excited to announce our partnership with Historic Sportscar Racing, which will be unveiled at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. This collaboration highlights Michelin’s 135-year legacy of excellence and innovation in pushing the boundaries of performance to stand the test of time with vehicles of the past, present and future.”

John Doonan, HSR President: “Michelin is synonymous with sports car prototype racing success, and it’s hard to think of a major contemporary prototype championship or race that hasn’t been won on Michelin in the last several decades. We are delighted to partner with Michelin at HSR to celebrate the brand’s winning legacy and heritage at the track with some of the same prototypes that secured their many victories and titles in their competition primes reuniting on Michelin tires in HSR. Michelin is the perfect partner to help with the growth and popularity of the HSR Prototype Challenge presented by Michelin, and we are honored to welcome them to the HSR family.”

About Michelin: Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world. Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies and healthcare. The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI-based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide. Headquartered in Greenville, S.C., Michelin North America, Inc. has approximately 23,500 employees and operates 36 production facilities in the United States (michelinman.com) and Canada (michelin.ca).

About HSR: An International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) property, Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) was formed in the mid-1970s with an event at Road Atlanta. There was one goal then and it remains true today: to celebrate the racing cars from the past. As a “time machine” of sights and sounds, HSR provides a venue for competitors and spectators alike to share in the wonderful history and excitement created by the cars that competed at race tracks around the world. HSR currently sanctions eight vintage and historic racing events at some of the world’s most renowned race tracks, including Daytona International Speedway, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, Sebring International Raceway and more. The complete schedule and full event information can be found on HSR’s website at www.HSRRace.com. Look for the HSR Channel on YouTube and follow HSR on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/HSRrace/, on Twitter X @HSR_race and on Instagram @HistoricSportscarRacing.

Kalitta Focused on Winning NHRA’s 1,000th; Langdon Looks for Rebound; Todd, DHL Team Seek Consistency

Photo Credit: NHRA

DOUG KALITTA FOCUSED ON WINNING NHRA’S 1,000TH TOP FUEL RACE

YPSILANTI, Mich. (April 22, 2025) – This weekend’s historic 1,000th Top Fuel race winner will accept a special NHRA “Wally” trophy as the 1,000th Top Fuel winner in NHRA history, and the 2023 Top Fuel champion wants to hoist that trophy. The 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series continues April 25-27 at the American Rebel Light NHRA Four-Wide Nationals near Charlotte.

A Top Fuel driver won in NHRA competition at 999 different races. Don Garlits won the inaugural Top Fuel race at the 1963 NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, Calif. Four hundred, ninety-nine races later, Doug Kalitta won NHRA’s 500th Top Fuel title at the 2002 NHRA FallNationals at Texas Motorplex near Dallas. The Kalitta family represents a significant portion of NHRA history, and Kalitta milestones are sprinkled throughout. A Kalitta win in the 1,000th Top Fuel race would be a fitting chapter in the rich history of both the Kalitta family and the NHRA.

“Winning the 1,000th Top Fuel race would be pretty exciting – especially with my family history,” Kalitta said. “With Connie (Team Owner Connie Kalitta) being out here as long as he’s been doing this and all he’s done in this sport, that would be really cool. We’re all trying hard to win these things. We try not to have too many distractions on different things so we can stay focused and work as a team to get it done. We definitely have a good shot at it, too, so our Mac Tools team is definitely looking forward to the opportunity.”

Kalitta won his first four-wide event last spring in Las Vegas, and he had visions of two straight on The Strip. It was not to be, but not getting the win two weeks ago has the 2023 champion laser focused on this weekend’s race.

“We have a real good shot at winning these races; Charlotte’s facility is just beautiful – like all of Marcus and Bruton Smith’s tracks. It will be our last regular-season four-wide of the year so we’d like to win this one and then come back and win the Playoff four-wide in the fall. Getting the four-wide in Charlotte would be one more thing we can say we’ve managed to accomplish out here. I feel good about the weekend.”

When Kalitta advanced to the Las Vegas semifinals, he earned a spot in the Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge this weekend. During Saturday’s qualifying sessions, the drivers who reached the semifinals in Las Vegas will re-run the semifinals in the four-wide format with the four winners advancing to the “finals” earning additional purse and championship bonus points.

Race Information:

American Rebel Light NHRA Four-Wide Nationals
zMAX Dragway; Concord, N.C.

TV Schedule (All times eastern):

Qualifying Show 1: 10-11:30 p.m. Saturday, April 26 on FS1
Qualifying Show 2: 12:30-1:30 Sunday, April 27 on FS1
Finals: 7-10 p.m. Sunday, April 27 on FS1

2024 American Rebel Beer NHRA Four-Wide Nationals Recap: Qualified No. 1.; defeated Shawn Reed and Cody Krohn, defeated Billy Torrence and Jasmine Salinas, lost to Justin Ashley and Clay Millican.

Doug Kalitta Career Stats: 611 events, 55 wins, 65 runner-up, 806 round wins, 60 No. 1 qualifiers.

2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Results to Date:

Gainesville: Qualified No. 4; defeated Ida Zetterstrom; lost to Steve Torence.

Phoenix: Qualified No. 1; defeated Travis Shumake, Bye, and Jasmine Salinas; lost to Shawn Langdon.

Pomona: Qualified No. 2: defeated Scott Palmer before losing to Tony Stewart.

Las Vegas: Qualified No. 1: defeated Clay Millican, Bye, lost to Tony Stewart and Justin Ashley.

Doug Kalitta Image Courtesy: NHRA

LANGDON LOOKING FOR STRONG REBOUND IN 1,000TH TOP FUEL RACE

YPSILANTI, Mich. (April 22, 2025) – After an unexpected stumble one race ago, Shawn Langdon is looking for a strong rebound. The 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series continues April 25-27 at the American Rebel Light NHRA Four-Wide Nationals near Charlotte.

Langdon and his Future Energy Solutions team enjoyed a win, a runner-up and a semifinal run in the season’s first three races. The points leader entered the four-wide race in Las Vegas two weeks ago looking to extend his ultra-hot season start. Instead, the team suffered its weakest showing of the season ending in a first-round loss. Opportunity knocks this weekend with a chance to win NHRA’s 1,000th Top Fuel race and claim the special race-winner trophy signifying the historic event.

“You don’t get historic opportunities like that all the time,” Langdon said. “To be able to win that race this weekend would be pretty cool, and it would feel good to put your name in alongside some of the greats of the sport.

“Last race was definitely a hiccup we didn’t expect, but these things happen. The race track was goofy, but it was the same for everyone. You’re gonna run into that sometimes, and we just didn’t make the proper adjustments to get the car where it needed to be for the track conditions. It is what it is – no big deal. We still left Las Vegas with the points lead so we’ll do our best to get back on track in Charlotte this weekend. Our Future Energy Solutions team puts a great car on the race track so we’ll just keep moving forward.”

Four races into the season, Langdon leads Tony Stewart by 16 points in the NHRA Top Fuel point standings. As Langdon and the rest of the Top Fuel drivers chase history this weekend, Langdon has his own zMAX Dragway history. He captured his first-career Top Fuel win there in 2012 and has two wins in four final rounds. His position at the moment feels familiar.

“Having the points lead early and running well is kind of where we were last year before we got into our streak of runner-up finishes. Now, we want to turn that corner and hopefully win more races. It’s a tough class; you have to be picture-perfect on race day, and you have to have luck. We have to be spectacular when we need to be spectacular, and if we can do that this weekend, maybe we can make some history.”

Race Information:

American Rebel Light NHRA Four-Wide Nationals
zMAX Dragway; Concord, N.C.
TV Schedule (All times eastern):

Qualifying Show 1: 10-11:30 p.m. Saturday, April 26 on FS1
Qualifying Show 2: 12:30-1:30 Sunday, April 27 on FS1
Finals: 7-10 p.m. Sunday, April 27 on FS1

2024 American Rebel Beer NHRA Four-Wide Nationals Recap: Qualified No. 7; Lost to Antron Brown and Brittany Force.

Shawn Langdon Career Stats: 354 events, 20 wins, 27 runner-up, 387 round wins, 21 No. 1 qualifiers.

2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Results to Date (Wins in Italics):

Gainesville: Qualified No. 11; defeated Justin Ashley, Tony Stewart and Jasmine Salinas; lost to Antron Brown.

Phoenix: Qualified No. 3; defeated Scott Palmer, Justin Ashley, Brittany Force and Doug Kalitta.

Pomona: Qualified No. 3; defeated Ida Zetterstrom and Josh Hart; lost to Tony Stewart.

Las Vegas: Qualified No. 11: lost to Antron Brown, Mike Salinas.

Shawn Langdon Image Courtesy: NHRA

J.R. TODD, DHL GR SUPRA TEAM SEEK CONSISTENCY

YPSILANTI, Mich. (April 22, 2025) – J.R. Todd and his DHL GR Supra team qualified well in Las Vegas and advanced to the semifinals, but only time will tell if more race-day success is near. The 2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series continues April 25-27 at the American Rebel Light NHRA Four-Wide Nationals near Charlotte.

Todd made good qualifying runs in very hot conditions and qualified fourth in Las Vegas two weeks ago. It was his best qualifying effort in the four races comprising the season so far. In fact, the DHL team’s qualifying results have improved with each race. Qualifying consistency appears within reach, but the task at hand is continuing that consistency on race day.

“Any drag racer has a short attention span; patience is tough,” Todd said. “I told myself, before the season even started, that once we brought Dickie (Crew Chief Dickie Venables) on, and I learned about all the changes that we made, I knew it’s gonna take some time so just be patient and don’t get frustrated. My job is to go out there and do the best I can, and when things click, hopefully the driver and the car are in sync and then we can go out there and start clicking off wins.”

Todd has two four-wide wins in Las Vegas but has yet to turn on a four-wide win light in Charlotte. He was the runner-up in 2021 but still searches for that elusive Charlotte four-wide win.

“We get to race four wide again this weekend, and hopefully we can have a good race – I’ve never really done that well in this event so it would be cool to turn that around this weekend,” Todd added. “It seems like, for whatever reason, we haven’t done as well in this four-wide event as we’ve done in Vegas so hopefully, this one is our year.”

When Todd advanced to the Las Vegas semifinals, he earned a spot in his first Mission #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge of the season this weekend. During Saturday’s qualifying sessions, the drivers who reached the semifinals in Las Vegas will re-run the semifinals in the four-wide format with the four winners advancing to the “finals” earning additional purse and championship bonus points.

Race Information:

American Rebel Light NHRA Four-Wide Nationals
zMAX Dragway; Concord, N.C.

TV Schedule (All times eastern):

Qualifying Show 1: 10-11:30 p.m. Saturday, April 26 on FS1
Qualifying Show 2: 12:30-1:30 Sunday, April 27 on FS1
Finals: 7-10 p.m. Sunday, April 27 on FS1

2024 American Rebel Beer NHRA Four-Wide Nationals Recap: Qualified No. 12; defeated Buddy Hull and Ron Capps, defeated Cruz Pedregon and Alexis DeJoria, lost to Matt Hagan and Daniel Wilkerson.

Funny Car Career Stats: 322 events, 21 wins, 26 runner-up, 351 round wins, 14 No. 1 qualifiers.

2025 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series Results to Date:

Gainesville: Qualified No. 11; lost to Bobby Bode.

Phoenix: Qualified No. 9; defeated Daniel Wilkerson before losing to Bob Tasca in the second round.

Pomona: Qualified No. 7; lost to Daniel Wilkerson.

Las Vegas: Qualified No. 4: defeated Bobby Bode, Jack Beckman, lost to Matt Hagan, Paul Lee.

The Non-Economic Damages Victims of Car Accidents Can Recover

A car accident can end in seconds. But what it leaves behind can linger for years. Even when the cuts fade and the bones mend, something still feels broken. In a place like El Cenizo, the sudden force of a crash can rattle more than the person behind the wheel. It affects the kids in the back seat, the spouse waiting at home, or the friends who notice the change in behavior.

El Cenizo people are energetic and productive, resulting in crowded roads and frequent automobile accidents on highways and crossroads. Vehicle accident lawsuits involve different types of accidents in this region.

An El Cenizo car accident attorney can help explain how to recover not just the economic damages, but also the non-economic damages, which involve the suffering and pain that the victim has had to live with since being injured in the accident.

Pain and Suffering That Disrupts Daily Life

Living with pain is like carrying a weight you never agreed to hold. It could be sharp, dull, or somewhere in between. But it’s there in the morning when you try to get out of bed. It’s there at night when you roll over and wince. It interrupts your day without warning, and it takes more than your comfort. It takes your energy, your patience, and your focus. And the worst part is how invisible it is to everyone else.

People ask how you’re doing, and you nod and smile because explaining this pain feels harder than the pain itself. But the pain matters. It makes life harder in ways you never expected. That matters in a claim.

Emotional Strain That No One Sees

The crash may be over. But your mind keeps replaying it. The sound, fear, or even the loss of control continues to linger. You flinch when someone brakes too hard. You feel tense in parking lots. You don’t sleep well, and some days you don’t feel anything at all.

This emotional weight changes how you move through the world. It changes how you trust others and how you trust yourself. That kind of fear can build walls between you and the people you love. It can turn ordinary moments into reminders of what happened. And it can keep you from feeling safe in your own body.

Loss of Companionship and Affection

When you are hurting every day, it changes the way you love. You pull away or feel irritable. You snap when you don’t mean to. You try to explain what’s going on, but the words never come out right. The people around you want to help, but they don’t know how.

The accident didn’t just hurt your body. It changed the way you show up for your partner. It changed how you hold your kids, how you share moments with them. These changes might be slow and quiet, but they matter deeply. And they deserve recognition too.

Permanent Disfigurement or Disability

Some injuries change the way you look, leading to disfigurement or disability. Others change the way you move. They remind you every day of what happened. You might feel embarrassed, angry, or withdrawn.

Maybe you used to run, dance, or swim, and now you cannot do it anymore. Maybe you feel like you’ve lost a piece of who you were. This is more than surface pain. This is about identity, confidence, and how you feel in your skin.

Final Thoughts

A car accident doesn’t only damage metal and muscle. It touches everything. Your peace, relationships, and sense of self. These non-economic damages can be hard to explain, but they are real and heavy, and they deserve to be part of your recovery. You don’t need to carry them alone.If you were harmed in an accident caused by another person’s carelessness, you are entitled to reasonable compensation for all of your losses. A skilled personal injury attorney can help you obtain the economic and non-economic damages you deserve.

Why Truck Accidents are So Common in The United States

Truck accidents are a significant problem in Riverside, resulting in numerous fatalities and injuries each year. Because of their size and weight, commercial trucks result in severe consequences from crashes, not just for truck drivers but also for occupants of passenger cars in Riverside, California.

In Riverside, where large highways facilitate huge commercial traffic, the survivors of accidents are normally faced with complex legal and medical issues. Getting assistance from a professional with the qualifications to do so, such as a Riverside truck accident attorney, can be crucial in dealing with the aftermath of such accidents and adequately compensating them.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

There are a number of reasons why truck accidents are increasing in America:

  • Driver Fatigue:

Truck drivers often drive for long and unsociable hours. Despite the limit on driving time, fatigue is a frequent occurrence, causing reduced reaction times and decision-making ability. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) lists driver fatigue as one of the main causes of truck accidents.

Fatigue further leads to lapses in attention that make it harder for drivers to respond appropriately during heavy traffic or rapid speed changes. Cobb County logistics experts often learn from their Marietta truck accident lawyer how overlooked warning signs can escalate into dangerous situations that put both drivers and nearby motorists at risk. These insights highlight the importance of recognizing early indicators of exhaustion before they compromise road safety. Making rest and proper scheduling a priority can help reduce these risks considerably.

  • Speeding and Aggressive Driving

To achieve tight delivery schedules, truck drivers sometimes speed or practice aggressive driving habits. Speeding beyond the stipulated limits or failing to change speed according to road conditions makes it more probable that accidents will occur. The FMCSA states that speeding is a leading cause of truck-related crashes.​

  • Distracted Driving:

Distractions such as the use of cell phones, eating, or playing with cab controls can take a driver’s attention away from the road. With the dynamics of driving oversized vehicles, temporary lapses of attention can cause severe accidents. The FMCSA emphasizes distracted driving risks due to commercial driver distractions.

  • Mechanical Failures: 

Regular maintenance is vital for the safe operation of commercial trucks. Mechanical issues, particularly brake failures and tire blowouts, can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. The FMCSA’s Large Truck Crash Causation Study reports vehicle-related problems as causes for the majority of truck crashes.​

  • Improper Cargo Loading:

Loaded or restrained cargo is often improperly placed and can move while being transported. This increases the risks of rollovers or jackknife collisions. Ensure safety and stability of the vehicles with proper loading practices.

  • Adverse Weather Conditions:

Rain, snow, and fog often reduce road traction and visibility. This makes it difficult for truckers to operate trucks safely. Reduced visibility and slippery roads require additional caution on the part of the drivers.

  • Lack of Training:

The functioning of a big commercial vehicle requires certain capabilities and know-how. Without training, the drivers are rendered unfit to confront road challenges, thus increasing the probability of accidents. Systematic training schemes must be implemented to equip drivers with needed competencies.

The excessive number of truck accidents within the United States is a result of adding up a mix of causal factors including driver drowsiness, over-speeding, distraction, mechanical breakdown, misloading, weather, and inadequate training.

Fighting these issues with greater enforcement of regulations, more improved driver training modules, regular inspections of vehicles, and public awareness campaigns will help to reduce the occurrence of truck accidents and enhance road safety as a whole.

What to Do After a Car Accident: Essential Steps for Handling the Situation

Photo by Life Of Pix at pexels.com

Let’s be real—nobody expects to get into a car wreck. But they occur all the time. You could be coming home after a day at work, passing through the insane traffic of a busy city like Las Vegas, and the next moment, you could be involved in a collision. It’s shocking and stressful and, frankly, it’s just really scary. So, what do you do next?

Many people freeze or panic, which is totally normal. But having a good idea of what the next steps are can help you ground yourself and avoid a cascade of issues — such as insurance headaches or unwanted legal drama. So here’s a guide on what to do immediately after a car accident.

Step 1: Call 911— Yes, Even for Minor Crashes

You may be tempted to simply “work it out” with the other driver. But don’t do it. Always call the police first. Getting an official report can spare you a lot of headaches down the road.

Calling the police is a smart thing to do as it establishes a legal record of the accident. These reports come in handy when you file an insurance claim. If things end up in court, you’ll need that report.

When the officer arrives, provide accurate information. It needs no over-explanation — just straight facts. And don’t forget to request the report or at least the report number.

Sometimes, determining liability is straightforward. But other times, it can be a complete long process— perhaps the other driver is blaming you, perhaps the insurance company is treating you unfairly, or perhaps you were injured and now have a ton of medical bills stacked up.

In situations like these, it’s smart to speak with a car accident lawyer in Las Vegas. A good lawyer can help with:

  • Collaborating with insurance companies
  • Determining the true value of your case
  • Completing legal forms and keeping appointments

In cases such as these, companies such as Adam S. Kutner, Injury Attorneys have assisted many with issues of this nature. You don’t have to struggle alone — getting help can be a game-changer.

Step 3: Trade Information with The Other Driver

All right, so you’ve called the police. If you have to wait, exchange information with the other driver — keep it sweet and polite. Now is not the time to debate who was right or wrong.

Here’s what to collect:

  • Full name and phone number
  • Driver’s license number
  • License plate number
  • Name of the insurance company and policy number
  • The vehicle make, model and color

You can write it, or just take pictures of everything. And avoid saying things like “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault.” That can backfire later.

Step 4: Take a Ton of Photos

If your phone’s functioning, now’s when you put it to work. When it comes to insurance and legal matters, documentation is key.

Take pictures of:

  • Damage to both cars
  • The license plates
  • The position of the vehicles
  • Tire marks, shattered glass or any other debris
  • Traffic signs, conditions of roads, and weather conditions

And also, write down the time and date. If bystanders are present, request their contact information as well. 

Step 5: Speak With Your Insurance Company

Once you’re in a safe place and things have calmed down a bit, call your insurance company. Do it sooner rather than later because waiting too long can actually jeopardize your claim.

When you call, be ready to give them your policy number.

Here’s what to do in some simple steps:

  • Swap information with the other driver
  • Email or upload your photos
  • Obtain the police report (if available)

Step 6: Consult a Doctor

This one part is extremely critical to know. Sometimes you think you’re okay immediately after an accident and then the pain hits days later. Whiplash, concussions or internal injuries can appear hours or even days later.

Here’s why you need to see a doctor as soon as you can:

  • It helps protect your health (of course).
  • It offers a medical record of the accident.
  • It bolsters your case if you must seek compensation down the line.

Don’t skip this step. If you don’t know where to go, begin with an urgent-care clinic or your primary physician. 

A car accident is one of those things that you never really expect to have to deal with, but when it does happen, you want to be prepared. So here’s a brief summary of how to do it right:

  • Stay calm and stay safe
  • Call the police
  • Swap information politely
  • Take lots of photos
  • Don’t admit fault
  • Contact your insurance provider
  • Consult a doctor for your injuries
  • Call a lawyer if needed

Honestly, it’s a lot. But doing these things can save you a heap of frustration down the line. Whether you’re just trying to fix a vehicle or heal from an injury, handling things correctly from the outset will go a long way toward helping you.

And just remember — you are not in this all by yourself. There are people who can help you navigate this mess. So lean on them. Ask questions. Get support. And take care of yourself.

Car Accident Law Myths That Could Cost You Thousands

Photo by Dominika Kwiatkowska at pexels.com

Colorado’s roads come with their own unique challenges, especially for drivers in fast-paced cities like Denver. Between unpredictable weather conditions, tight urban traffic, and a growing population, accidents are bound to happen. When they do, most people lean on what they think they know about the law. Unfortunately, that “knowledge” often comes from hearsay or outdated information. Believing these myths can seriously backfire—sometimes costing you thousands of dollars in medical bills, repairs, or missed compensation. That’s why understanding the truth about car accident laws, especially in a city like Denver, isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for protecting yourself financially and legally.

Myth #1: You Don’t Need to Call the Police if the Accident Seems Minor

Even if the accident feels like a small bump with no visible injuries or major damage, not calling the police can lead to big problems later. Insurance companies often require a police report to process your claim. If the other driver later denies fault or changes their story, your case could fall apart without official documentation. A minor fender bender can turn into a legal mess if there’s no report to back up your side. No matter how small the accident seems, always call the police and get a report filed—your future self will thank you.

Myth #2: The Insurance Company Will Take Care of Everything

It’s easy to believe that your insurance company—or the other driver’s—will handle all the headaches. But insurance adjusters work for their company, not for you. Their goal is to pay as little as possible, not to ensure you receive fair compensation. That’s why it’s smart to get legal help early on, especially if you’re navigating claims in a busy metro like Denver. Speaking with a qualified Denver car accident attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome. They know the local laws, how to negotiate with insurers, and how to make sure you get every dollar you deserve.

Myth #3: If You’re Not Hurt Immediately, You Can’t File a Claim Later

Not all injuries show up right away. Whiplash, back pain, or even internal injuries can take hours or days to appear. If you assume you’re fine and don’t seek medical treatment, it becomes harder to connect those injuries to the accident. Insurance companies may argue that something else caused them. Even worse, you could miss the legal window to file a claim. Always visit a doctor after an accident, even if you feel okay. Document everything. That medical paper trail could make or break your case later if symptoms develop or compensation becomes necessary.

Myth #4: You Can’t File a Claim If The Accident Was Partially Your Fault

Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule. That means even if the accident was partially your fault, you are still able to recover damages—as long as you’re not more than 50% responsible. The amount you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 30% responsible, you’ll still recover 70% of the compensation. Don’t let anyone talk you out of pursuing a claim because of shared blame. Let the courts or your attorney decide how much fault you carry. You could still recover substantial compensation even if the crash wasn’t entirely someone else’s fault.

Myth #5: You Don’t Need a Lawyer for a Simple Case

Even so-called “simple” cases can spiral into complicated disputes. What seems straightforward may involve hidden injuries, unclear liability, or uncooperative insurers. Without a legal expert guiding you, you might miss out on thousands of dollars in compensation. Lawyers know how to gather evidence, question insurance tactics, and push for a fair settlement. They often spot details you might overlook—ones that strengthen your claim. Don’t take chances just because your case appears simple. It rarely is. Having legal guidance from day one gives you a major edge in getting the results you need and deserve.

Myth #6: Any Lawyer Can Handle a Car Accident Case

Many people think any attorney can handle a car accident case, but that’s a costly assumption. Personal injury law, especially involving car accidents, requires specific experience and knowledge. A lawyer who primarily deals with contracts or real estate won’t know the tactics insurance companies use or the deadlines for filing claims. Choosing the wrong type of lawyer could mean you miss out on key evidence or fail to meet critical legal requirements. Always choose an attorney who focuses on car accident and personal injury law. That experience can make all the difference in winning or losing your case.

Myth #7: A Lawsuit Means You’ll End Up in Court

The word “lawsuit” often makes people nervous. They picture courtroom drama, long trials, and endless delays. But the truth is, most car accident claims never go to trial. In fact, the majority settle out of court through negotiations. Filing a lawsuit is often just a way to formally initiate the legal process and show the insurance company you’re serious. This pressure often leads them to offer a better settlement. So don’t let the fear of court stop you from filing. Your attorney will guide you every step of the way and will likely resolve your case without a single courtroom appearance.

Myth #8: The At-Fault Driver Will Automatically Pay

It’s easy to assume that if someone crashes into you, they’ll automatically pay for your damages. In reality, it’s their insurance company—if they’re insured—who handles the costs. And that company won’t just hand over money without a fight. If the driver doesn’t have insurance or has too little, you might end up relying on your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Without the right legal guidance, you could get stuck footing the bill. That’s why it’s important to understand all your coverage options and work with someone who knows how to uncover every possible path to compensation.

Car accident myths don’t just lead to misunderstandings—they can cost you real money and damage your future. Whether it’s trusting an insurance company too quickly, waiting too long to take action, or choosing the wrong lawyer, the consequences of bad information are steep. That’s especially true when navigating the specific legal landscape of places like Denver, where local rules and insurance norms can vary widely. The more informed you are, the better you can protect your rights and finances after a crash. Don’t let myths steer your recovery in the wrong direction—know the truth, and take smart action from the start.