NASCAR drivers will no longer be allowed out of their cars to confront other drivers in a moving vehicle, according to USA Today.
NASCAR vice president of competition Robin Pemberton announced the news today (Aug. 15), adding that the rule is in effect immediately.
No specific penalty was announced for the violation of the rule however.
"During an event if a race car is involved in an on-track incident, and/or is stopped on or near the racing surface, and unable to continue, to make forward progress," Pemberton said, reading from the new rule. "Unless extenuating circumstances or conditions exist with the race car, example on fire, smoke in the cockpit, etc, the driver should take the following steps: shut off all electrical power and if the driver is uninjured, lower the window net. Do not loosen, disconnect or remove any driver personal safety equipment until directed to do so by safety personnel or a NASCAR official. After being directed to exit the race car, the driver should proceed to the ambulance or other vehicle or as otherwise directed by safety personnel or a NASCAR official."
The rule comes after an incident with Tony Stewart and Kevin Ward at Canandaigua (N.Y.) Motorsports Park last weekend.
After Ward hit the wall, he unstrapped himself from his car and walked down the track to confront Stewart. He was then hit by the three time NASCAR champion and killed.
"At no time should a driver or crew member or members approach any portion of the racing surface or apron," Pemberton added. "At no time should a driver, crew member or members approach another moving vehicle. All vehicles not involved in the incident or that are able to continue afterward should slow down to a cautious speed as outlined in [NASCAR rule] 10.4: yellow flag rules."
The new rule will be applied on a "case-by-case" bases and drivers will most likely have to show intent of a confrontation in order to be penalized.
Stewart won't be racing at Michigan this weekend, according to Reuters. Stewart-Haas Racing confirmed that veteran driver Jeff Burton will be taking his place in the race.
An investigation into the incident is still ongoing and will likely take up to two weeks before knowing any further information.
Ward's funeral was held on August 14.
"This rule is really put in place for the safety of all our competitors and it's safety first right now," Pemberton said.
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