Jason Priestley's condition after sustaining a fractured back and concussion in a racing crash Sunday is improving, and he is now listed as stable but serious, doctors said Monday (August 12).

The 32-year-old actor and director -- best known for his role as Brandon Walsh in the long-running TV series "Beverly Hills 90210" -- also broke his nose and both feet and sustained facial lacerations when his Indy-style racecar smacked head-on into a wall during a practice lap before Sunday's Kentucky 100.

Coming out of the second turn at the Kentucky Speedway in Sparta, Priestley's car slid sideways before straightening out and slamming into the wall at approximately 180 mph, according to the Associated Press. It's believed Priestley lost control of the vehicle on a patch of oil absorbent. He was flown via helicopter to the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington for treatment.

Priestley's most serious injury is the fractured thoracic T9 vertebra, located in the middle of his spine. A hospital spokesperson reported in a press conference that Priestley was not paralyzed and there was "no evidence of neurological impairment" though surgery would be required to repair the damage.

As of Monday morning, Priestley had regained consciousness, was speaking and was being comforted by his family and friends. Clear signs of his recovery were an awareness of his surroundings, the ability to say his name and recognition of family and friends.

The concussion, classified as moderate, resulted in a memory loss doctors said was temporary. It was too early to determine the permanent effects, if any, the trauma would have, though similar injuries historically have a good recovery rate. His communication, memory and response to stimuli will be closely monitored in the coming days.

He had also been taken off a respirator, which wasn't required for his breathing and served only to keep him sedated.

It was too soon to say how long Priestley's recovery would take, though the spokesperson said that his two broken feet, which may also need surgery, could hinder any physical therapy for his back. Priestley's physical health at the time of the crash and a quick response from EMS workers contributed to his improved condition.

Sponsored by Kelly Racing, Priestley had been competitive in the sport since 1991 and won his first race in 1998. He was ranked seventh in the Infiniti Pro Series.