Ron_H

Itc:

During the study period, obviously two facts emerged: 1) people were allowed to drive as fast as they wanted within reason (creating an obvious hazard would have, if observed, netted them an arrest), and some probably pushed the envelope regularly; and 2) no noticeable accidents or fatality increase was recorded, and in fact, the reverse was seen. Of course this is understandable when considering the same thing is happening in Germany and other parts of the world that allow such behavior. But the difference that IS noticeable is that in Germany the possession of a driver's license is a measure of considerably more demonstrated ability to operate such machines safely. This was a study in America with American drivers like we have in other American states, not Germany or Italy etc. The accident rate went down as did the fatality rate, and climbed back up when the limits were reinstated, and is still climbing. Moot point. There were NO limits, and people drove that way though not the majority of drivers, but a few individuals, driving whatever they felt like driving. Not limited to inspected and prepared machines, but generic pickup trucks, Yugos, Escorts, Mercedes, Tauruses, etc. Anything licenseable. And seat belt usage went up too, meaning drivers became MORE CONCERNED ABOUT PASSIVE SAFETY when they perceived limits to be non existent. I repeat what the California Dept. of Transpotation traffic engineering manual states: " People are not insane."

1AS

And all this is an excellent and interesting discussion with which I fully agree. But, it that has little to do with supercar owners who decide they can explore the upper limits of their car's potential. Once you cross a certain speed, health has more to do with good fortune than driving skill for most of us. On most roads, that number is far lower than the maximal speed a supercar. On tracks, the same is true, though repeated laps give one the opportunity to creep up higher on the car's potential. Overconfidence is a certain threat to survival. AS

Ron_H

Do you think those particular kind of supercar owners had occasion to use the roads of Montana during the period of no daytime limits?

Do you think those particular kind of supercar owners have the occasion to use roads in other localities of the world devoid of limits?

Obviously, if yes is the answer to one or both of the above questions, though some of them exceed(ed) their competence or the car's abilities, the findings conclude that these individuals may be in the minority and present relatively little threat to others or themselves statistically. Drivers in the other catagories present far greated threats to their own or others' safety and survival.

Risk and danger are ever present. Zero risk is unrealistic and unachieveable. That fact should not dissuade anyone from realizing what many hesitate to even consider. The argument is made that the latter group should be protected from the former, but the statistics prove that this is possible and not compromised by the actions of responsible persons in the former group day in and day out. I repeat: keep left except to pass. Some of the finest and most competent race car drivers have been lost to failed tires; that should not dissuade anyone from racing or racing at their limit. If it does, we should all resign ourselves to piloting Fiat 124s with governors limiting speed. Baloney.

SoCal924

Sheet, I've done an honest buck-fifty down the I-5 on a typical sunday, for over 20 mins straight...

Hayward to Victorville in 5hrs 15min with 2 stops for gas in a 931.

Hammer down!


J

ltc

Since we're on the topic.....
https://rennlist.com/forums/off-topic/294042-nasty-lambo-wreck.html

Sorry, but I guess I'm just stubborn. There's a very good reason properly designed and maintained race tracks, instruction and lapping days exist.

Richard S

ABSOLUTELY! Those fortunate enough to own the ultimate Porsche should get to one of these events and run the car at sustained high speed in a relatively safe environment. (I say "relatively safe" because unforseen things can happen...flat tire, etc) I've participated in several of the MKM open road race events, as both navigator and driver. The events are organized to be as safe as possible, with responsible speed enthusiasts. These events are not a free-for-all. The participants recognize that there is considerable danger associated with high speeds and we are all aware of the consequences.

If anyone with a CGT, or any other Porsche for that matter, would like to participate, let me know. There is a lot of support, advice, and help available for rookies. It's too late for this year, but it's never too early to plan for next season. We would love to have more members on Team Porsche....I think we have about 15 signed up for next Sunday's Pony Express ORR. Even Anders is going to attend....and he has to fly over from Sweden!

Rich

LiveNupe

Richard S,
What track is that in your avatar???

toddk911

A local Porsche mechanic I know in Orlando was there. He is also in either the Rolex series or ALMS.

Zotz Racing.

He hit 200 in one of their cars there.

Richard S

Thunderhill in Norcal, turn 9 in the background.

Rich

500

Very fortunate to survive...

At those speeds, it's a lottery. You can't make a blanket statement about survivablility in an Enzo or CGT for that matter based on the (relatively) small number of times these cars have crashed at speed.

HERE is a link to an Enzo crash which was fatal. It really depends on what part of the car hits what.

SoCal924

Man, seems corvettes have a penchant for going under diesel trailers!

J

NNH

Although it's too late for the Pony Express, there's still just time to sign up for next month's Silver State Classic on www.silverstateclassic.com
I'm participating for the second time, and stepping up to the GT class to learn more about the car. Hope to see some of you there!
S