Good news for racing fans (and humans in general): NASCAR racer Ryan Newman is back on his feet and recovering well just two days after a dramatic crash.
Newman was racing in the Daytona 500 on Monday when he was involved in a grisly-looking crash but, according to NASCAR.com, the racer came away from the wreck with “non life-threatening injuries” and by Wednesday was joking around with his family and hospital staff.
He even posed for a picture with his kids.
Ryan Newman Continues Great Improvement pic.twitter.com/xIZRiaRApi
— Roush Fenway (@roushfenway) February 19, 2020
The news comes as a great relief as initially the fiery crash didn’t look good at all.
Newman was leading the pack when his car flipped over and burst into flames before skidding to a stop.
Here is the final lap of the Daytona 500 in which Ryan Newman's car was flipped at the line.
We will continue to keep you updated on his status as we learn more. pic.twitter.com/qkEwQBpoP0
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) February 18, 2020
People are crediting the design of the car Newman was driving for saving his life.
Just can’t emphasize enough how amazing it is that he’s okay and on his feet with his kiddos a mere two days after the most horrific car crash I’ve ever seen on a racetrack. If you see an automotive safety engineer today, throw them a high-five. https://t.co/xgm1Sh8rLU
— Esoteric Jeff (@EsotericCD) February 19, 2020
Apparently Newman himself had advocated for a stronger protective cage inside NASCAR vehicles and the additional protective bar that was subsequently added, dubbed the “Newman bar” may have been what saved him from a serious injury or worse.
Ryan is an engineer. He lobbied NASCAR to add a bar to the cage to increase the strength of the top Halo. NASCAR agreed, and the Newman Bar was added to the Gen6 COT with little fan fare. 10 years later.. the Newman Bar likely saved Ryan’s life.. pic.twitter.com/JtGwh7KJyp
— mnwybs (@mnwybs) February 19, 2020
According to an update from NASCAR.com Newman was released from the hospital today.
Ryan Newman has been treated and released from Halifax Medical Center pic.twitter.com/J0twhGgQm7
— Roush Fenway (@roushfenway) February 19, 2020
Keep your eyes on the road, folks.
