C5/​1998R Level cross­ing ac­ci­dent at Hanko on March 16, 1998

16.03.1998

On Monday, 16 March 1998, a two-coach passenger train collided with a gravel carrying truck on an unguarded level-crossing at Krogars close to Hanko. The truck was completely wrecked and the diesel locomotive of the train was badly damaged. The truck driver suffered serious injuries and six train passengers were injured, as well. The engine driver and the assistant engine driver managed to protect themselves by getting behind the engine space, suffering thus only minor injuries. About one cubic metre of gravel penetrated into the driver’s cabin, covering entirely, e.g. the assistant driver’s seat.

Rail traffic on the Karjaa – Hanko line was interrupted for four hours.

In view of a better travelling safety, Accident Investigation Board Finland recommends that all old seats equipped with a turning mechanism be taken off service and the window panes of the large-compartment doors be checked and replaced if they are not made of safety glass.

Recommendation S109
Recommendation S110