More than a dozen people were injured Sunday at the Grand Prix of Houston when a popular driver crashed into the fence blocking the bandstand. Several vehicles were involved and one driver was injured as well, though the spectators experienced the brunt of the collision.
ABC Houston reports the crash occurred when four-time IndyCar champion Dario Franchitti lost control and ran into the fence. Debris rained into the stands from his collision with a car driven by Takuma Sato. Then, Franchitti’s car bounced back onto the track, where Sato was hit by another vehicle.
Vehicle and fence debris was scattered into the stands. One woman was trapped underneath a piece of the barricade, and other spectators were surprised to see her crawl out unaided. Videos captured by spectator cell phones reveal numerous people assisting the injured.
Thirteen spectators were injured. Eleven were treated at the scene and two were transported to the hospital. Franchitti was also hospitalized with a concussion, spinal fracture, and a fracture to his right ankle. An IndyCar official was also injured and transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital.
Race organizers say that their greatest concern is the safety and welfare of fans and race participants. They report that the accident is under investigation.
When you attend a sporting event, you are more likely to be concerned about the safety of those on the field or course than you are about your own well-being. But accidents happen in all sorts of sporting environments.
An accident like this one can change your life as you recover from physical injuries and deal with the mental trauma of the event. Fortunately, in some cases, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries and more.
How Kevin Krist Can Help
If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, contact the law office of Kevin Krist today to discuss your legal options. Call 281-677-3965 for a free consultation.
