Top 10 NASCAR Drivers Who Survived Career-Ending Wrecks

Top 10 NASCAR Drivers Who Survived Career-Ending Wrecks

Austin Dillon

10. Kyle Busch – Daytona 2015 Xfinity Crash

Shattered his leg and foot in a brutal impact with an unprotected wall. Came back the same year and won the Cup championship.

9. Aric Almirola – Kansas 2017

Suffered a fractured vertebra in a violent crash. Many thought he’d never race again, but he made a full return the next season.

8. Austin Dillon – Daytona 2015 Coke Zero 400

His car launched into the catchfence and disintegrated. Walked away with only bruises, shocking the entire garage.

7. Ryan Newman – Daytona 2020

One of the most terrifying crashes in modern NASCAR. Survived injuries that could’ve ended his life, not just his career.

6. Sterling Marlin – Kansas 2002 & Neck Injury Aftermath

Neck damage from repeated impacts forced him out of several races. Doctors warned him of permanent injury if he continued.

5. Steve Park – Darlington 2001 & Pocono 2002

Multiple violent crashes left him with severe injuries and neurologic issues. His promising career was never the same afterward.

4. Ernie Irvan – Michigan 1994 & 1999

Suffered massive head and lung injuries that nearly killed him. Made a comeback, then survived another major crash five years later.

3. Elliott Sadler – 2003 Talladega & 2004 Talladega

Two of the most extreme flips in NASCAR history. Walked away both times despite hits that easily could’ve ended his career.

2. Michael McDowell – Texas 2008 Qualifying Crash

A 180-mph head-on impact followed by 10+ rolls left the car in pieces. He survived with only minor injuries thanks to SAFER barriers and safety gear.

1. Dale Earnhardt Jr. – Multiple Concussions (2012–2016)

Concussions nearly sidelined him permanently and even threatened his long-term health. His return in 2017 remains one of the sport’s most emotional comebacks.