James Hinchcliffe out of intensive care as recovery continues

INDIANAPOLIS – IndyCar driver James Hinchcliffe has been moved out of intensive care, two days after surgery on his left thigh and pelvic area following a crash during practice for the Indianapolis 500.

Series officials say the popular Canadian has made “substantial” improvement and is expected to make a full recovery. No additional surgery is expected.

Dr. Timothy Pohlman, the surgeon who worked on Hinchcliffe, says that the medical staff is pleased with what it has seen.

Hinchcliffe was injured Monday when he hit the wall in the third turn at Indianapolis, a crash caused by a broken suspension. A metal part pierced Hinchcliffe’s left leg.

He has been ruled out indefinitely, and Schmidt Peterson Motorsports has not yet announced a replacement driver for Sunday’s Indianapolis 500.