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Wednesday, July 4 NASCAR mandates window size Associated Press DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- NASCAR has ordered race-car modifications that will make it easier for drivers to use head-and-neck restraint systems. NASCAR President Mike Helton said Tuesday the opening of car windows will be standardized to accommodate drivers who need to climb in and out of the car while wearing a head and neck support system, or HANS. The decision to mandate a 17-inch window height is the first time NASCAR has instituted a specific window size, spokesman John Griffin said. Some drivers have expressed concern about wearing the restraints, saying it could affect their ability to escape from a car in the event of a fire. NASCAR has made the restraints optional for drivers, while other racing leagues have required them. Since the death of driver Dale Earnhardt, most Winston Cup drivers have begun wearing the safety systems. Helton also announced that NASCAR will investigate all four driver deaths since May 2000 because of their apparent similarities. Earnhardt died Feb. 18 on the final lap of the Daytona 500. Investigations into the deaths of Adam Petty, Kenny Irwin and Tony Roper have been incorporated into the probe of Earnhardt's fatal crash. Helton said the study should be completed by early August. Fifty-four people are involved in the study to date, he said. Send this story to a friend | Most sent stories

NASCAR: mistakes made in Earnhardt query A changed NASCAR returns to Daytona Waltrip expects emotional Daytona return McGee: Returning to Daytona NASCAR returns to Daytona with heavy heart Helton says NASCAR is doing fine Memory of Earnhardt clouds return to Daytona Remembering Dale Winston Cup drivers prepare for their first trip back to Daytona without Dale Earnhardt. Real: 56.6 | ISDN | T1 Honest intentions NASCAR Chairman Bill France admits fault in the matter Dale Earnhardt's death was investigated. wav: 190 k Real: 14.4 | 28.8 | 56.6 Full throttle President Mike Helton explains NASCAR's efforts to increase chassis and throttle testing. wav: 283 k Real: 14.4 | 28.8 | 56.6

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