Schuey slowed according to black box

Information recovered by the FIA from the wreckage of the Ferrari, states that Schumacher accelerated to a peak of 191mph along the 750-metre Hanger Straight before applying the brakes as he prepared to turn into Stowe.

The crash, which may have been caused by faulty brakes, left the German nursing a double leg fracture.

Preliminary analysis indicates a deceleration force from 3.1g to 2.1g. By the time the Ferrari had left the tarmac, the deceleration fell to 1.3g.

The evidence backs claims that safety measures at Silverstone were adequate, following criticism from race winner David Coulthard and Schumacher's team-mate Eddie Irvine.

'The gravel trap performed satisfactorily in a worst-case situation,' said an FIA spokesman.

'Despite much comment, there are no simple answers to the problem of slowing an out-of control car. The relevant measures are under constant review.'

The FIA add that further safety improvements could result, after full analysis of the accident.