POLL: Safety improvements at Mount Panorama

Mount Panorama could undergo changes to improve driver safety as a result of the nasty crash which red flagged the Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour earlier this month.

Drivers have called for improvements to be made to the run from Sulman Park to McPhillamy Park after Ash Walsh’s stricken Audi R8 was struck by an unsighted John Martin, putting both drivers in hospital.

The blind corner has been witness to several high profile incidents over the years, including the death of Mark Porter in 2006, and a heavy clash between Paul Weel and Chris Pither during practice for the 2008 Bathurst 1000.

Last week Supercars confirmed it will investigate ways to prevent such accidents occurring in the future.

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Acting CEO Shane Howard revealed that the Commission is looking into the possibility of installing a warning system in addition to marshals at the corner.

This could see trackside warning lights installed and a light system fitted to cars to further alert drivers of incidents.

The matter is due to be discussed at the next commission meeting.

In its 80-year history, the only significant change to the circuit has been the addition of The Chase in the late 1980s, although the wall at Skyline has been pushed back to allow for a gravel trap.

FIA track inspector John Symes visited Mount Panorama as part of its triennial inspection required to maintain its licence, though significant improvements were only recommended at Sandown and Queensland Raceway.

What do you think? Should the circuit introduce warning lights or does that section of track require more significant changes?

Cast your vote in this week’s Pirtek Poll.