More on Benson’s Accident
Benson, the 2008 NASCAR Truck Series champion who recently lost his ride, remains in Spectrum Hospital in fair condition, according to a family statement posted late Monday on his Web site. He suffered broken bones in the upper body and a minor burn on his elbow at the track in Marne, Mich.
After starting deep in the field of the 50-lap feature, Benson was racing to the front when he collided with Larry Lehnert's car entering turn three. Both cars spun toward the outside barrier, but Benson's caught fire. He was extracted from the car, was awake and alert and was transported to the hospital, where he initially was listed in serious but stable condition.
06/14/09 [Following the accident] the Life EMS emergency response crew, along with Berlin Raceway officials and safety team, worked carefully to extract Johnny Benson from his race car. Benson was awake and alert during the process and gave race fans a wave when loaded into the ambulance. "He was pretty sore, but he seemed to be doing well last night when I talked to him," Johnny Benson Sr. said. "The car's driver side hit the wall hard, and it's a testament to the Hans (head and neck safety) device and the safety seat in the supermodified car that held him in place so well. I have to commend the safety crew and ambulance crew at Berlin Raceway for their quick response – they did their job well, putting the fire out quickly and taking care of Johnny." Benson Sr. said the fuel line was cut in two when it was pinched between the rear axle and the frame. The alcohol-based fuel that these supermodified cars use burns blue and very hot, and Benson managed to come out of it with barely any burns due to the quick response by the safety crew. The frame of the car was not bent badly, and all of the safety aspects of the car held up well, which allowed Benson to escape without major injuries. Berlin Raceway PR