A high-value Nissan Skyline GT-R was totaled at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca when a track telehandler operator crashed into it during a red flag period, now leading to a public lawsuit. The incident occurred at R’s Day 2025, an annual event for GT-R enthusiasts, and has escalated after private negotiations failed. The car’s owner, Artin Nazaryan, is now demanding full damages.
Incident Details: A Chain of Errors
The accident unfolded after an earlier mechanical failure caused oil to spill on the track, triggering a red flag. While standard procedure involves safely halting all cars, officials first issued a black flag instructing drivers to exit the circuit, then deployed the red flag, leaving several vehicles stranded. As the telehandler moved tires to repair barriers, it collided with Nazaryan’s parked R34 Skyline V-Spec, destroying the rear quarter panel beyond repair.
Footage confirms that the operator’s visibility was obstructed by the stacked tires, and the car was clearly off the racing line when struck. The Skyline, a heavily modified track machine with a 2.8-liter HKS engine, sequential transmission, and extensive safety upgrades, is valued at approximately $250,000.
Dispute and Allegations
Nazaryan initially sought a private settlement from Laguna Seca, but negotiations broke down. The track allegedly not only refused to pay damages but also blamed Nazaryan for failing to follow proper flagging procedures. Nazaryan disputes this claim, stating that the telehandler operator plowed into a stationary vehicle while obstructed.
Nazaryan posted on Instagram:
“For the record, I have never made a harassing phone call to Laguna Seca or any of its employees… I shared a video of what happened to my car and what the current situation is. I’m not asking anyone to contact them, harass them, or do anything on my behalf.”
The case has ignited public backlash, with many commenters urging the track to settle. Nazaryan offered a compromise: full damages in exchange for positive PR, avoiding injury or punitive claims.
Implications and Industry Context
This incident highlights the risks inherent in track days, where mechanical failures, driver errors, and operational accidents can result in significant property damage. Insurance coverage may be limited in cases of gross negligence, potentially leaving the track liable for out-of-pocket expenses.
The dispute underscores the tension between event operators and participants, especially when high-value vehicles are involved. While many such incidents are settled privately, this case has escalated due to the track’s alleged refusal to cooperate.
The situation remains unresolved, but the outcome could set a precedent for liability in similar track day incidents.
