I know this will be an unpopular sinero, but i for one would like everything cut back to 1/8 mile. most accidents occur after the 1/8 mi. mark, most blownup equipment happens after the 1/8 mi. Some tracks that have 1/4 mi. capabilities most times run 1/8 mi. except for big races IE: memphis, in fact there's not one track in Miss. that runs 1/4mi., not many in S.C. or Ala. In the end this saves on accidents, cleanups, and is much safer.
Top fuelers are already running close to 280mph in the 1/8 and only 40 to 50mph the last 1/8mi. while they melt down.
I did see the tape/run in which Scott, died and it appeared to me there were serious problems, soon after the fire. The chutes came out very late, and the car didn't slow down much before hitting the sand, like maybe the throttle was stuck or maybe he was uncounsious long before he got to the end of the track.
These are just my opinions and mine alone.
Zip.