Bill Simpson’s work was driven by one core principle: to save lives through innovative racing safety solutions.
From the early days of his career, Bill recognized the inherent dangers in racing and set out to make the sport safer. His contributions have forever shaped motorsport safety and continue to impact drivers today. Let’s explore his journey and the groundbreaking innovations that changed racing forever.
Drag racing parachutes
In the high-speed world of drag racing, drivers needed a way to quickly slow down their cars after crossing the finish line to prevent accidents. Bill Simpson designed drag racing parachutes, which allowed drivers to slow down more quickly and safely after their runs. These parachutes are deployed at high speeds to help bring the car to a safe stop.
Simpson’s parachutes revolutionized safety in drag racing, becoming a mandatory safety feature for top-tier drag racers. They have saved numerous lives by ensuring that drivers have a reliable way to decelerate safely after intense runs.
Fire-Resistant Racing Suits
Bill Simpson introduced the first-ever fire-resistant racing suits, designed to protect drivers from the extreme heat of racing fires. This innovation saved countless lives and became a standard piece of equipment in racing worldwide.
“He undoubtedly saved a lot more lives than anyone knows with his products throughout the years.”
— Rick Mears
Bruce Martin, Bill Simpson’s lasting legacy as one of racing’s most important figures
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Racing helmets
In the 1960s, helmets used in racing were rudimentary at best. Bill’s racing helmets featured advanced materials and design, ensuring that drivers’ heads were better protected from high-impact crashes and sudden jolts. With improved cushioning and impact resistance, Simpson’s helmets set a new standard for racing safety.
Simpson’s helmet innovations quickly became industry standards. Today, racing helmets are critical pieces of safety equipment, and Bill Simpson’s influence can still be seen in their design. He also pioneered the five-point harness racing seatbelt, significantly improving driver safety and ensuring they stayed securely inside the vehicle during crashes.
A legacy that changed racing forever
Bill Simpson’s contributions to the motorsport safety industry cannot be overstated. His innovations are still the gold standard today. Simpson’s work saved lives and created a safer environment for drivers in one of the most dangerous sports in the world. His commitment to racing safety and his pioneering spirit continue to inspire innovation and dedication across the industry.
