Story perspectives

Donovan Williams Shields Reporter, Both Injured in Pit Cart Accident

5/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Donovan Williams of Hendrick Motorsports stepped in front of a 4,000-pound pit cart, shielding reporter Amanda Busick, and both sustained injuries.
Williams suffered a deep laceration on his right buttock and road-rash, while Busick incurred a hyperextended knee and cuts.
Both were taken to a hospital, released Friday night, and are expected to fully recover.
NASCAR began reviewing pit-road safety, and Rick Hendrick and Jeff Gordon praised Williams.

History

Historical Context

The fatal crash of Dale Earnhardt on February 18 2001 sparked NASCAR’s safety overhaul, prompting the October 17 2001 mandate of HANS head-and-neck devices and the installation of SAFER barriers at all premier tracks. By the next race, 41 of 43 drivers already wore HANS gear, a practice that still protects crew members like Donovan Williams today.

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Story summary

Donovan Williams of Hendrick Motorsports stepped in front of a 4,000-pound pit cart, shielding reporter Amanda Busick, and both sustained injuries.
Williams suffered a deep laceration on his right buttock and road-rash, while Busick incurred a hyperextended knee and cuts.
Both were taken to a hospital, released Friday night, and are expected to fully recover.
NASCAR began reviewing pit-road safety, and Rick Hendrick and Jeff Gordon praised Williams.

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