New York, NY—May 1, 2013—Go-kart riding is fun for kids and adults alike, but INSIDE EDITION’s I-Squad found that some go-karts contain a potentially deadly hazard that most riders would never think about. 

INSIDE EDITION found that, on go-karts with exposed rear axles, a rider’s long hair or a piece of loose clothing can get caught in a go-kart’s rear rotating axle, resulting in gruesome injuries and even death. INSIDE EDITION spoke exclusively with Shelbi Crouch, who went go-karting at Whiteland Raceway Park, just outside Indianapolis. Crouch’s long hair became entangled so violently that she lost 80% of her scalp, and has since undergone multiple surgeries.

CROUCH: “There were nights where I was just sobbing because it was so excruciating.”

INSIDE EDITION’s Lisa Guerrerowent undercover atWhiteland Raceway, and although she was warned to tie her hair back, found some of the go-karts still had exposed rear axles, the same hazard that caused Crouch’s disfiguring injuries.  Whiteland Raceway’s owner declined to be interviewed on-camera.  On the telephone, he wouldn’t comment on Crouch’s accident, but stated that his go-karts comply with his insurance company requirements.

INSIDE EDITION is produced daily by Inside Edition Inc. and distributed by CBS Television Distribution. Check local listings for stations and times atwww.insideedition.com.