Why I never race without a HANS device
If there’s one thing I’ve learned about motorsport, it’s that safety is just as important as speed. When I first started racing karts, I didn’t think much about things like head and neck restraints – I just wanted to go fast. But after learning about the HANS (Head and Neck Support) device and why it’s required in so many racing series, I realised it’s one of the most important pieces of gear I wear when racing cars.
What Is a HANS device?
If you’ve ever seen a racer with a weird-looking thing sitting over their shoulders, that’s a HANS device. It’s attached to the driver’s helmet with tethers and works with the seatbelt harness to keep the head from snapping forward in a crash.
Why does that matter? Because in a big impact, your body stays strapped in, but your head keeps moving forward at full speed – causing serious neck and spinal injuries. The HANS device stops that from happening by spreading the impact forces across my shoulders and chest, instead of letting them concentrate on my neck. 3
How does it feel to wear one?
At first, I thought wearing a HANS device was a bit uncomfortable. But once I got used to it, I barely noticed it anymore. And the more I learned about what happens in high-speed crashes, the more I realised I’d be crazy NOT to wear one.
Motorsport history is full of tragic accidents, especially before the HANS device became compulsory. Some of the biggest names in racing lost their lives because of basilar skull fractures – an injury the HANS device could have prevented. That’s why today, every major racing series requires drivers to wear one.
Some drivers say it’s restrictive or annoying, but it’s worth it. When I strap in, I want to know I’ve done everything I can to protect myself. The HANS device gives me confidence to push hard, knowing I’m as safe as possible.
