Daytona crash may change Kzoo Speedway

ALAMO TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) - A crash that injured more than two dozen fans at Daytona International Speedway Saturday may prompt NASCAR officials to review venue safety requirements -- and may lead to changes at a West Michigan race track.

Kyle Larson's car was clipped and went airborne into the protective fence at the Florida track during the Nationwide Series race, ripping holes through the barrier and sent pedicels from the disintegrated car, including a tire and engine, into the grandstands. Two of the injured fans suffered critical injuries but were later upgraded to stable condition at a hospital.

---- Photos: Fans injured in Daytona crash ----

Kalamazoo Speedway in Alamo Township is NASCAR-sanctioned, so there could be changes to its safety measures. But owner Gary Howe said his fence is 16-feet high -- twice as high as his insurance company mandates.

"Out of a thousand racetracks in the country, only 60 are NASCAR-sanctioned," said Howe.

He said he watched the race -- and crash -- on TV. He said he was surprised because of Daytona International Speedway's state-of-the-art safety measures.

"The car hit just the wrong spot," he said.

He said he can see how the incident may lead to new safety rules, particularly regarding crossover gates.

NASCAR officials have said they may consider moving fans back from the track or adding a second catch fence.

Howe said it's important to protect the fans.

"We have to keep those people safe, as Daytona did, too," said Howe.