What happens if a bobsleigh crashes?
I · Intermediate · The race · 1 of 1After a crash, the whole crew must cross the finish line together with the sled to be ranked. If the sled stops before the finish, the crew is disqualified; no one may help. After every crash the athletes must be checked by the race medical officer, and only a doctor can clear a crew to slide again after a suspected concussion.
How it works
- Crew with the sled: everyone must cross the line with the sled.
- Stopped before the finish: disqualification.
- No help: third parties may not assist.
- Medical check: every athlete after every crash.
- Concussion or serious injury: the medical officer may stop the athlete and the licence is marked.
- Return: only a doctor can give "fit to slide" approval.
- Unfit athletes: the jury and race doctor may stop anyone unfit to compete.
- Training crashes: two crash-free training heats are needed to race.
The glossary has the crash rules, the finish, the DSQ, the DNF, the official training and the helmet.
Tricky cases
A sled overturns but slides over the line with the crew inside. Is it ranked?
Yes, if the whole crew crosses with the sled.
A crew member falls out before the finish. Ranked?
No. The entire crew must cross with the sled.
Can track workers push a stalled sled over the line?
No. Outside help is not allowed, and a sled that stops is disqualified.
Can an athlete who hit their head carry on if they feel fine?
Not without a doctor's "fit to slide" approval.
Why the rule exists
Requiring the crew to finish with the sled stops a crashed crew from claiming a time. Medical checks after every crash protect against hidden head injuries.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Race | Crew and sled cross together | IBSF 10.6.5 |
| Training | Two crash-free heats to race | IBSF 10.1 |
| Medical | Check after every crash | IBSF 9.1 |
From the rule book
IBSF, International Rules Bobsleigh (September 2026), articles 9.1, 10.1 and 10.6.5. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: the IBSF International Rules, issued each season.