MR to require safety vests

In an effort to alleviate serious harm, Monticello Raceway will now mandate that all drivers wear safety vests every time they participate.

“Over the years I’ve seen some of the fellows I’ve grown up with sustain injuries from racing accidents and since it’s been a proven fact that wearing a safety vest affords some extra protection. We are going to mandate that all drivers wear one when they race,” said Monticello Raceway general manager Shawn Wiles. “That mandate will take effect beginning April 15.

“There are quite a few drivers here who already wear safety vests and we’ve seen many saved from serious injury because of them,” Wiles added.

Mighty M regular Cedric Washington has been wearing his safety vest for about 10 years. When he was in a racing accident last year he sustained only minor injuries as a result of the added protection provided by vest.

“I don’t drive in a race without it (the safety vest) because you never know what will happen,” Washington related. “When I was in a wreck last year I’m positive that the vest saved me from serious injury. I could have easily broken my collarbone or fractured some ribs had I not been wearing it. I was bruised, but not broken.”

"Initially we’ll have a few vests available to be borrowed but after a period of time we will fine a driver $75 if he or she participates without it,” Wiles said. “After all, it’s for their own safety.” (Monticello)

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