Accidents do happen, but modern Formula 1 (F1) racing has become significantly safer. The last time a driver was fatally injured during a race was 16 years ago, at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, involving Ayrton Senna.

Since Max Mosley took over as President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), safety has been a top priority, sometimes at the expense of performance. Looking back at F1 history, the most powerful cars were from the turbocharged and ground-effect era of the 1980s. The peak of performance in the 21st century was around 2004, with subsequent regulations limiting the cars' capabilities, such as the switch to V8 engines in 2006, the introduction of grooved tires in 1998, and annual restrictions on engine rev limits. Despite these limitations, the result has been improved safety.

Nowadays, the average number of injured drivers per season is typically less than one, and there have been no serious injuries leading to permanent disability in recent years.

Safety Factors in F1:

1. Car Structure:

• Safety standards are integral to the design of F1 cars, akin to stringent crash tests for road vehicles. F1 cars are built with a "soft outer, rigid inner" structure, where the carbon fiber bodywork absorbs impact energy by breaking apart, while the cockpit is made of high-strength materials to protect the driver. Additional safety features include the use of steel cables to secure the tires to the car and raised headrests for added protection.

2. Driver Protection:

• Drivers wear highly protective gear, including fire-resistant suits that provide up to 13 seconds of protection in case of fire, and helmets that are incredibly strong, able to withstand the impact of a tank without damage. Following an incident in 2009 where Felipe Massa was struck by a spring, helmet designs were further improved to enhance impact absorption and face shield strength.

3. Driver Skill and Reflexes:

• F1 drivers are among the most skilled in the world, with reaction times that are approximately ten times faster than the average person. They can react to a situation in under 0.05 seconds, compared to the average person's 0.2-second reaction time. This quick reflex allows them to prepare for impacts, tightening their neck muscles and bracing themselves against the forces involved.

The need for airbags in everyday cars stems from the fact that most drivers cannot react quickly enough to brace themselves for an impact. However, F1 drivers, who must endure lateral g-forces of up to 5Gs for extended periods during races, have exceptionally strong neck muscles, enabling them to protect themselves during collisions.

These safety measures have contributed to the reduction of accidents and injuries in F1, ensuring that the sport remains thrilling while minimizing risks to the drivers.