Statement by Simpson Performance Products in Response to the 8/21 News Conference by Nascar Regarding the Earnhardt Investigation

    MOORESVILLE, N.C., Aug. 21 We commend NASCAR for making
public the findings of its investigation into the circumstances of Dale
Earnhardt's fatal crash at Daytona.  However, we are dismayed and disappointed
that NASCAR's report leaves open the question of whether the belt separation
caused Dale Earnhardt's injuries, but failed to mention that the installation
did not conform to the manufacturer's specifications, which are enclosed with
each safety restraint system.  The shadow that continues to be cast over the
integrity of the safety restraint system is in direct contradiction to reports
prepared by independent experts we retained.
    Upon examining the seat belt from the Earnhardt crash, investigators from
the independent firm of Accident Reconstruction Analysis, Inc., working in
cooperation with NASCAR, concluded in a written report that, "The failure of
the left lap belt was not the result of a design or manufacturing deficiency,
but was a result of improper method of installation and unfavorable loading
geometry."
    That report also stated, "The lap belt separation likely occurred after
significant deceleration of Mr. Earnhardt's body had already taken place."
That report goes into extensive detail in explaining how the belt separated.
    Another highly respected independent expert, W.H. Muzzy of WHMuzzy
Consulting, also physically inspected the Earnhardt car and seat belt.  The
Muzzy report concluded that, "The lap belt failed at lower than expected loads
due to improper routing of webbing through the roller during a tightening of
the restraint.  The location of the lap belt anchor points rearward of the
manufacturer's recommendations exacerbates the tendency to pull the belt
upward at an angle to the belt line, thereby cocking the roller adjuster in
its housing."
    Mr. Muzzy also reported that, "Material and construction of this restraint
system were high quality and appropriate for this application."
    The complete Accident Reconstruction Analysis and WHMuzzy reports were
provided to NASCAR prior to its announcement today.
    Not only do we encourage all drivers to ensure that their seat belts are
installed as specified by the manufacturer, but we also request that NASCAR
expand its safety rules to ensure seat belts are properly installed in
accordance to manufacturers specifications.  It has been our contention from
the beginning that if installed properly, Simpson seat belts will not fail.
    We at Simpson Performance Products are committed to doing all we can to
enhance safety for all participants in motor sports.

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