Protective devices, which operate on the basis of impact and catch systems, including those of the inflatable gas bag type, require the vehicle either to be closed in order to accommodate the requisite components in the roof framework or the columns in which this framework is supported, or a steering wheel hub sufficiently large to accommodate the gas bag with the gas generator. Neither of which are available in motor racing vehicles. Therefore, a gas bag is inserted in a hose-shaped, folded state in a slit along the front region of the rim of an open cockpit. This gas bag can be brought immediately over and back across the steering wheel via a pulling mechanism into a position between the driver and steering wheel in the event of a vehicle collision.