Just how dangerous was auto racing during the early 1900s?
In the early 1900s, auto racing was incredibly dangerous, much more so than today. Safety measures were virtually non-existent, with drivers often racing in basic, unprotected vehicles on unpaved, rough roads. Fatal accidents were common, both for drivers and spectators, given the lack of safety barriers and control over crowd positioning. The drivers were truly daredevils, risking their lives for the thrill and glory of the race. It took many years and too many lives lost before significant safety improvements were implemented.