The NASCAR driver was injured in a crash at Talladega Superspeedway
On Sunday, NASCAR raced on the 2.66-mile oval of Talladega Superspeedway. A violent crash sent driver Erik Jones to a local hospital.
In stage three, multiple Toyota teams pitted for fuel only. As they exited the pit lane, they formed in a single-file line and were no in a position to control the race.
However, they needed to push to put pressure on the leading pack that was running slower to save fuel.
Erik Jones, Bubba Wallace and John Hunter Nemechek all tangled at the pack rolled over a bump into turn three. As the cars got out of shape, a bump draft from Nemechek pushed Wallace into the bumper of Jones.
With the bumpers out of alignment, Jones was hooked right into the turn three wall. It was a violent impact, crushing the front nose of the car.
NASCAR driver transported following Talladega crash (Video)
“I don’t know if I’m alright,” Erik Jones stated on the team radio after the crash and before the car even came to a stop.
The team responded quickly, “Get the ambulance there. Let them know.”
When the car finally came to a rest, Jones confirmed, “I need help.”
The 27 year old was first taken to the infield care center. He was checked and released, even giving a post-accident tv interview.
However, soon after, Jones was transported to UAB University Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. He was released on Sunday night.
On Monday, Jones visited a specialist in the Charlotte area. Upon further evaluation, it was discovered he suffered a compression fracture in a lower vertebra.
Due to the injury, Jones will not take part in this weekend’s race at Talladega Superspeedway. Legacy Motor Club has called on their reserve driver, Corey Heim to fill the seat of the No. 43 car.
Jones will be absent from the driver’s seat in a week-to-week injury.
Talladega Results: April 21, 2024 (NASCAR Cup Series)
Erik Jones comments on his injury
“I just wanted to send out a quick message to everybody that after the attention I received in Talladega — After the wreck, everybody did a great job helping me out, getting the help I needed,” Erik Jones opened via X.
“But, learning a little bit further, I’ve got a spinal fracture that is going to keep me out of the car for Dover this weekend. Going to be taking it week by week to see how things go.”
“But, hopefully be back in the car as soon as I can. Get healed up quick, and right.”
“Just wanted to say thanks to Legacy, for supporting me during this time. I’ll be in Dover this weekend supporting Corey and the No. 43 car to try to get them out there and running well this weekend while I can’t be in.”
“Just wanted to let you guys know that I’m alright, at home and healing up. I’ll be back in the car soon.”
Watch the Erik Jones crash video here
