Have you seen differences in how tracks handle emergency medical coverage?
Some racers report tracks with only a first aid kit and radio; others say they won’t race anywhere without an ambulance parked at the end of the strip.
Safety is one of the most critical—yet often overlooked—elements of drag racing. Fans love the thrill, racers live for the adrenaline, but behind the scenes, there’s an unspoken question: what happens when something goes wrong? Specifically, does every track need an ambulance with a licensed crew on standby, or can they rely on local EMS to respond when called?
Sanctioning Bodies Set the Bar
For NHRA-sanctioned events, the answer is clear: yes. The NHRA requires a full “Safety Safari” crew, including certified EMTs and at least one ambulance on site at all national events. These crews are not just there for show—they are equipped to respond to the worst-case scenarios, from high-speed crashes to fires. Similarly, international organizations like RACERS/FIA mandate that a suitable ambulance, staffed by at least two EMTs or paramedics, must be present during all track activities.
These standards go beyond just having people with first aid kits. The ambulance must be fully capable of transporting injured drivers off-site, and in many cases, an additional backup crew or fire/rescue vehicle is required.
State Regulations Vary Widely
Unlike the NHRA, not all states set hard requirements. Here’s a breakdown of how some states handle the issue:
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New Jersey – One of the strictest. NJ law (Administrative Code 13:62‑2.18) requires certified EMTs and at least one ambulance on site at all licensed tracks. The ambulance must be capable of transporting patients, not just stabilizing them.
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Georgia – Regulations (Rule 120‑3‑18) focus on fire safety and spectator protection. They do not explicitly require an ambulance or licensed crew for racers, leaving much of the responsibility to the track and its insurer.
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Pennsylvania – While their strictest ambulance requirements apply to horse racing (requiring both human and equine ambulances), the spirit of the regulation demonstrates how some states heavily regulate safety coverage at events.
In many other states, the law is either vague or non-existent. This leaves sanctioning bodies, insurers, and track owners to fill the gaps. Many tracks are struggling to survive and medical and fire crews at the event add thousands of dollars to the expense to open the gate.
Stabilization vs. Transport: What’s Required?
One of the biggest questions track owners face is whether they need a fully functional, transport-capable ambulance or if it’s enough to have medical personnel who can stabilize a patient until EMS arrives.
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NHRA & FIA rules: Require a transport-capable ambulance on-site.
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Local tracks: Often rely on a compromise. They may have an EMT crew and a “standby” unit capable of basic stabilization, while depending on local EMS for actual transport.
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Insurance considerations: Many insurers will not cover events without an ambulance ready to transport, regardless of local law.
Why It Matters
Having a properly staffed ambulance isn’t just a regulatory checkbox—it’s a lifesaving necessity. When seconds count, waiting for an outside EMS response can be the difference between life and death. Tracks that cut corners risk more than fines; they risk lives and reputations.
The Bottom Line
In short, requirements vary by state and by sanctioning body, but best practice is clear:
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Have at least one ALS-capable ambulance (Advanced Life Support) on-site.
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Staff it with licensed EMTs or paramedics.
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Ensure it’s ready not only to stabilize but to transport an injured driver immediately.
Tracks that want to avoid liability—and keep racers safe—should follow the higher standard, not the bare minimum.
Have you seen differences in how tracks handle emergency medical coverage? Some racers report tracks with only a first aid kit and radio; others say they won’t race anywhere without an ambulance parked at the end of the strip.
