Citation

Leonard L, Lim A, Chesser TJ, Norton SA, Nolan JP. Br. J. Sports Med. 2005; 39(3): 159-161.

Affiliation

Royal United Hospital, Combe Park, Bath BA1 3NG, UK. lisa.Leonard@virgin.net

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, BMJ Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1136/bjsm.2004.011650

PMID

15728695

PMCID

PMC1725138

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To assess the pattern of injuries presenting to a racing circuit medical centre in two three-year periods before and after two chicanes were built into the track. METHODS: Medical centre records were used to identify all patients assessed during the two time periods. Those referred to hospital were categorised by injury severity into three groups. RESULTS: The proportions of those attending the medical centre that were referred and admitted to hospital were the same in both periods (12-13% and 3% respectively). During the two study periods, the risk of a severe injury for a car driver decreased from 0.1% to 0.03% (p<0.05). For a motorcyclist, similar values were 0% and 0.2% (not significant). CONCLUSIONS: Chicanes have improved the safety of the racing circuit for car drivers, reducing the risk of injury.