HANS devices in historic racing

[JRTM]

I am interested in this issue which is becoming a hot topic for historic cars. As a surgeon I have been looking at the scientific data in respect to the effectiveness of the device as well as the risk of a fatal cervical (neck) injury. The device is only partially effective - not protecting against lateral force for example - and the risk of fatal neck injury is statistically tiny.

Right now the FIA is planning a blanket introduction for the use of HANS even though their practical use in many forms of cars is very difficult and extremely expensive. At the same time none of the other available devices are getting a look in - why is this exactly? Even the F1 teams don't use commercially available HANS devices and use modified versions.

I see in the US only 50% of historic racers claim to be using HANS systems - what about here? Much less i am sure.

What do people think?