Demolition Derby

Demolition Derby is a type of motorsport which is totally different to any other. The aim of the event is to crash into other cars, and the last car that is still running at the end wins. There are usually 5 or more cars with drivers, who aim to kill each other’s cars. There are usually some rules, which mainly ensure safety. The most important rule is that no driver is allowed to intentionally run into the driver’s side of another car. This helps to prevent many serious accidents. Usually those who enter into a Demolition Derby sign a waiver of their safety, but there are still rules to ensure that the drivers stay safe. Cars are modified in many ways, to ensure that they last for longer, and perform well. The average car used is not worth more than 500 dollars, but some have been used that are near the 1000 dollar mark.

The driver’s side door is painted in a color which stands out, to ensure that there are no accidents into the door without first seeing it. Often this is done in old fields, where the soil is wet and made muddy. This helps to slow down cars, and minimize the damage that is done both the car and the drivers. Usually the radiator and fuel tank are moved to a more suitable location, because if damaged they can end the run in a Demolition Derby. Sometimes doors are welded shut, metal cut outside of the guards and the suspension modified so it is more durable in the case of an accident. Like Drag Racing, Truck Racing and any other Motorsport, there is always potential for severe injury.

There are many different techniques used in a derby, but it’s entirely up to the driver as to what they do. Many people choose to ram other cars in reverse, because it means the damage is done to the rear of the driver’s car, where nothing that is very important exists. Damage to the front of the car can crush vital components of a car, which you usually can’t do without for very long at all. This includes air intakes, cooling systems, and even the main frame of the engine. There are regularly accidents in derbies, although it’s unusual to have serious injuries where a person is killed or severely hurt.

In saying this, the protective equipment used is quite often severe, to ensure that the drivers stay safe. Glass is usually removed from the car before the event, to ensure that it can’t to any damage to the drivers when a collision causes it to smash and break everywhere. This is a sport which is highly enjoyable as a spectator and as a driver, which explains why so many people take part in it every year. In Europe, it is known as banger racing, but it is slightly different than the normal version of Demolition Derby. I enjoy many different Motorsports, but this one is special!