NASCAR crash numbers continue downward spin in '09

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NASCAR crash numbers continue downward spin in '09
By Seth Livingstone, USA TODAY

For the second consecutive year, crashes and spins were down in NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series.
Not since 2002 have there been fewer on-track incidents in the sport's top series, according to numbers compiled by USA TODAY.

The results are surprising, given that NASCAR made double-file restarts the norm during the second half of the season, a move to spice up competition at the risk of additional mayhem.

"The double-file restarts I would have thought would have increased that," four-time series champion Jeff Gordon said. "And they still might (with) a whole season next year."

There were 195 crashes and spins during NASCAR's 36-race season (5.4 per race) compared to 211 (5.9) last year — an 8.5% drop and the lowest since 2002 (5.2).

Teams say they realize the importance of making the Chase, NASCAR's 10-race playoff for the championship, and recognize the need to run laps and finish races.

"It's all about the points," team owner Richard Childress said.

NASCAR isn't prepared to draw any conclusions.

"It's nice to know that (incidents) are down, but it could be only temporary," says Robin Pemberton, NASCAR's vice president of competition. "Lead changes are up. Competition (numbers) show there's been more passing, so I don't know what would cause incidents to be down unless guys are just doing a better job with the car itself."

2009 NASCAR CRASH ANALYSIS

Database graphic: Sort through NASCAR Sprint Cup wrecks by driver, track

Photo gallery

Chart-toppers: Teammates Stremme, Hornish 1-2 in crashes | Start and park: Fewer laps, fewer wrecks | Steering clear: Avoiding mess an indicator of success

I think the COT has contributed to this downturn in crashes. It seems that the cars, while they might not drive great, are easier to keep semi-under control and not spinning out...

notta surprise that Stremme is #1

Nope, not at all. He wrecked EVERY WEEK.

Yep, I give credit to the COT.