The hit that Erik Jones took on the backstretch at Talladega on Sunday is one that he will remember for the rest of his life. The NASCAR driver was shaken after the wreck and his in-car camera and radio reveal just how much pain he was in right after the hit.
These hooks into the wall are terrifying. It won’t take you very long to see many fans compare this hit to the one that took Dale Earnhardt’s life at Daytona. It is also a sad reminder of a couple of other things.
First, it’s a reminder that these drivers risk everything. One bad wreck can end a career or worse, a life. That threat always looms large, especially at these superspeedways. Second, it is a reminder that motorsports have come such a long way in the last 20-25 years in terms of safety improvements.
Erik Jones took the hit into the wall and seconds later let his crew chief know, “I don’t know if I’m alright.”
Soon after, he radioed over, “I need help. My back.” There was pain in his voice, it didn’t even sound like Jones, to be honest. You can watch and listen below, but be warned, it is not an easy listen.
NASCAR has taken the No. 43 car back to the R&D Center for further analysis.
Erik Jones cleared, then hospitalized after Talladega wreck
The wreck happened quickly. Toyota as a group made a brave call to short the fuel run and put the field in a tough position. Part of the plan was to run wide open while the field saved fuel. It would either force the leaders to push the pace or the Toyota group would quickly catch and pass the pack.
Going over the tunnel, the track gets bumpier. A hard push from John Hunter Nemechek at that point got the entire line off-kilter. Then, it was impossible to stop the inevitable. Cars wrecking all over.
Erik Jones was taken to the infield care center where he was evaluated. Then, he was released from the center. Later on, Jones did not feel well. So, he went back to the care center. From there, he was taken to a local hospital.
A scary wreck and a scary outcome. While Jones was eventually released from the hospital, there hasn’t been any word on his status. It is unclear if he is going to be ready to race at Dover on Sunday. However, at this time, there is no indication that he won’t race, either.
Drivers risk everything in NASCAR. Erik Jones unfortunately reminded everyone of that harsh reality at Talladega.
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