Narain escapes unhurt

Chennai, Feb 5: Narain Karthikeyan, the only Indian Formula-3 racing driver, had a miraculous escape today afternoon from a high-speed head-on collision with a truck, just outside the Irangattukottai track, Sriperumbudur.After receiving first aid at the track8217;s medical centre, Narain, along with his relative Harishvar, manager Prityush Lahiri and driver Mani, who were also in the car, were rushed to Apollo Hospital where they were said to be out of danger.

Narain and Mani suffered injuries on the forehead, while the other two escaped with cuts and bruises, it was said. Doctors at the hospital said both Narain and Mani would be kept under observation after surgery.Narain, the 23-year old from Coimbatore, was in a hurry to reach the track for a practice/ testing session ahead of Sunday8217;s second-leg of the MRF Grand Prix motor races.

It is now doubtful whether Narain would participate in the second leg. He comfortably won both the rounds in the first leg on January 31 and was odds-on favourite to win the GPcrown.

His family members and friends said Narain was not driving the Esteem at the time of the accident.

According to a passer-by who reached the spot seconds after the accident, Narain got out of the back of the car with some difficulty while Mani, who was driving the car, had to be helped out. 8220;It was just a coincidence that I happened to reach the spot. I didn8217;t realise who the occupants of the car were. We just took them to the medical centre at the track. Only when I was driving back was I told who Narain was. I am so happy that he is well and recovering,8221; the man said.