Steward Analysis
After analyzing the video and considering the rules under SCCA/BMW CCA guidelines, I have identified key moments of concern in the incident. The analysis focuses on peripheral vision before turn-in, the concept of the "Vortex of Danger," and the rule of one move on straights. Below are the findings with timestamps, rule violations, and fault allocation.
Analysis Output:
1. Timestamps and Observations:
- 0:05 - Initial Positioning: Driver A (leading car) and Driver B (trailing car) are approaching a corner. Driver A appears to be on the racing line, while Driver B is positioned slightly to the inside, attempting an overtake. Peripheral vision awareness by Driver A is questionable at this stage.
- 0:08 - Turn-In Point: Driver A begins to turn in toward the apex without a clear indication of checking for Driver B’s presence on the inside. This violates the peripheral vision rule, as Driver A should ensure no car is alongside before initiating the turn-in.
- 0:09 - Contact: Contact occurs between Driver A and Driver B as Driver A moves toward the apex, squeezing Driver B. This incident falls into the "Vortex of Danger," where the leading driver’s turn-in creates a hazardous situation for the trailing driver who is already committed to the inside line.
- 0:10 - Post-Contact Reaction: Driver A continues on the racing line without apparent adjustment, while Driver B loses control momentarily. This suggests Driver A may not have been fully aware of Driver B’s position.
- 0:12 - Stabilization: Both drivers regain control, but the incident could have been avoided with better situational awareness from Driver A or a more cautious approach from Driver B.
2. Rule Violated:
- Peripheral Vision Before Turn-In (SCCA/BMW CCA Guidelines): Driver A failed to adequately check for Driver B’s presence on the inside before turning in, a critical responsibility of the leading driver to avoid contact.
- Vortex of Danger (SCCA/BMW CCA Guidelines): Driver A’s turn-in created a dangerous situation by closing the space where Driver B was already positioned, leading to contact. The leading driver must leave room if another car is alongside, even partially.
3. Fault Allocation:
- Driver A: 70% Fault - Primary responsibility lies with Driver A for failing to use peripheral vision or mirrors to confirm Driver B’s position before turning in. The turn-in move directly contributed to the contact by entering the Vortex of Danger without leaving sufficient space.
- Driver B: 30% Fault - Driver B bears some responsibility for attempting an aggressive inside move without ensuring a safe overlap or clear communication of intent. While Driver B had a right to the space if alongside, a more cautious approach might have mitigated the risk of contact.
Conclusion:
This incident highlights the importance of situational awareness and adherence to SCCA/BMW CCA rules regarding peripheral vision and avoiding the Vortex of Danger. Driver A’s failure to check for Driver B before turning in is the primary cause of the contact, though Driver B’s aggressive positioning contributed to the situation. Penalties or warnings may be issued based on the severity of the incident and the discretion of the stewards, with a focus on educating both drivers on safer racing practices.