NASCAR gives green light to new head and neck restraint device
By JIM UTTER - The Charlotte Observer
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - Beginning next weekend, drivers in NASCAR's top three series - Nextel Cup, Busch and Craftsman Trucks - have another choice when it comes to head and neck restraints.

Currently, the HANS device is the only approved device, but a new Hutches Hybrid head and neck restraint has completed testing and NASCAR officials confirmed Saturday it will be allowed for use in competition starting July 13.

The Hybrid's patented technology, created by Safety Solutions and LFT Technologies, includes increased shoulder belt interaction and a shorter back. The restraint also uses a combination of a chest strap and a front buckle strap that hooks into the top of the seat belt buckle system as opposed to coming up between the legs.