‘The enquiry will identify lessons learnt and make recommendations’
A statement released on Friday by the ACU confirmed that an independent enquiry in to the incident is underway and that the police and Isle of Man authorities are already investigating.
The inquiry will be lead by senior motorsport executive Rob Jones who is a lawyer and former chief executive of the MSA (Motor Sports Association).
The statement read: “The remit of the enquiry will be to investigate the events around the incident, identify the lessons learnt and make recommendations on any issues around race organisation and safety matters for future events.”
The enquiry is expected to last several weeks.
ACU events chairman Brian Higgins added: “We feel it is vital the right lessons are not only learnt but acted upon to ensure the highest possible safety standards at future events. The best way to achieve that is by an independent enquiry.”
The ACU is currently providing financial assistance to Steve Mercer’s wife, Caroline, to enable her to stay close to the hospital where her husband is being treated.
Changes made
On the day after the crash the TT race organisers, ACU Events Ltd, announced an immediate change to the Red Flag procedures. Gary Thompson, the Clerk of the Course, said: “A red flag instruction will apply to the entire TT Mountain Course irrespective of where that incident has occurred. There will be no movement on the TT Course by any rider until the incident has been cleared, regardless of how long that takes. The riders will only be permitted to move in course direction under the control of Travelling Marshals.”