NASCAR has long been associated with dramatic crashes. However, over its 76-year history, safety measures have significantly improved. In the 21st century, it’s rare to see drivers suffer fatal injuries or severe harm in accidents. Yet, as demonstrated during last Saturday’s Coke Zero Sugar 400, terrifying crashes remain a key aspect of the sport, something that Martin Truex Jr. witnessed firsthand.
One of the most alarming incidents at Daytona involved Josh Berry, sparking concern among those in the Cup garage. NASCAR’s attempt to address airborne crashes, following Corey LaJoie’s flip at Michigan, seemed to fall short, prompting criticism from Truex.
Martin Truex Jr.’s Frustration with NASCAR’s Safety Efforts
A couple of weeks ago, Corey LaJoie’s attempted pass on Noah Gragson at Michigan International Speedway ended disastrously. During the final stage, LaJoie’s No. 7 Chevy went airborne, flipping over before landing upside down on the grass. It marked the first blow-over at a non-superspeedway since 2010. In response, NASCAR added air-deflecting shark fins to reduce the risk of such incidents.
However, at Daytona, the fins appeared ineffective, frustrating Martin Truex Jr. In the closing laps, Austin Cindric’s No. 2 Ford nudged Josh Berry’s No. 4 car, sending both into a spin. While Cindric regained control, Berry’s car flipped and slammed into the interior barrier.
The severity of the crash shocked many, with Cindric’s spotter Doug Campbell exclaiming, “Jesus!” and Kyle Busch’s spotter Derek Kneeland noting, “The No. 4 Ford just hit the wall upside down.” But it was Martin Truex Jr. who expressed the most frustration, suggesting over the radio, “Let’s just take 40 cars, throw them in a dumpster, light them on fire, and let everybody watch it.”
NASCAR has faced criticism for the Next Gen car since its 2022 debut, especially after Kurt Busch suffered a severe concussion, along with injuries to other drivers. Despite the improvements, incidents like Berry’s crash still occur. Thankfully, Berry emerged unscathed, as confirmed by his spotter Eddie D’Hondt. Carson Hocevar’s spotter also reassured him, noting that Berry was fine.
Despite Truex Jr.’s harsh criticism, Berry and his wife expressed gratitude to NASCAR. While Truex voiced his concerns, others, like Denny Hamlin, pointed out that airborne crashes are often less damaging than hitting a wall, with Ryan Newman’s 2020 Daytona 500 crash being a notable exception. Fortunately, both LaJoie and Berry walked away without serious injuries, with Berry himself stating, “It probably wasn’t as bad as it looked.” He also acknowledged the car’s strength.
Berry’s wife, Ginny Berry, also thanked NASCAR for the safety measures that protected her husband. “Last night was wild. I couldn’t be prouder of @joshberry88 and the entire 4 team. First stage win and leading before the big crash. Thanks to everyone who reached out and checked on us. I’m grateful for the safety measures & that Josh is okay after this.”
The NASCAR community seems divided over the safety of their cars, but as Truex Jr. suggested, NASCAR may need to find a more effective solution than shark fins to prevent future airborne incidents.
