NASCAR Driver Erik Jones Breaks Back in Talladega Crash, Misses Next Race

NASCAR driver Erik Jones suffered a broken lower vertebra in a brutal crash at Talladega on Sunday during the Geico 500. The injury will sideline him for the next race at Dover Motor Speedway.

NASCAR driver Erik Jones suffered a broken lower vertebra in a brutal crash at Talladega on Sunday during the Geico 500. The injury will sideline him for the next race at Dover Motor Speedway.

The broken bone was confirmed by Jones' team, Legacy Motor Club, on Tuesday. Corey Heim will drive Jones' No. 43 Toyota in his absence.

The crash occurred on the first lap of the race when Jones' car was hit from behind by another car. Jones' car then spun out of control and slammed into the wall.

Jones was immediately taken to the infield care center and then transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. He was released from the hospital on Monday.

Jones said in a statement that he is "thankful to be alive" after the crash. He also said that he is "focused on getting back in the car as soon as possible."

The injury is a major setback for Jones, who is in his second season with Legacy Motor Club. He has had a strong start to the season, finishing in the top 10 in three of the first four races.

Jones' absence will be a big loss for Legacy Motor Club. He is one of the team's top drivers and is a contender for the championship.

Heim, who will replace Jones at Dover, is a 20-year-old rising star in NASCAR. He won the ARCA Menards Series East championship in 2021 and has been competing in the Xfinity Series this season.

Heim has made two starts in the Cup Series this season, finishing 22nd at Atlanta and 24th at Martinsville.

The Dover race is scheduled for Sunday, May 1. Jones is expected to miss several races while he recovers from his injury.